Chapter Three: The Observers Are Watching

Pei Zhao lifted a hand, and the screens changed. They showed the classroom frame-up, the competition hall, Gu Tingzhi losing control, even Lin Yan eating alone in the cafeteria. “You believe your ability will free you from isolation,” Pei Zhao said. “The opposite is true. Soon you will see your mother lie to comfort you, your friends lie to preserve their dignity, and those who love you lie to spare you pain. Eventually, every person becomes a problem. Only we understand that silence.” It was still the truth. Behind Pei Zhao, an emblem of seven empty seats illuminated. “Join the Observatory. We will teach you control. We will give you and your mother new identities. You never have to return to Old Harbor.”