Lucien’s breaths were ragged, each one laced with the lingering echoes of the past. The remnants of the previous battle clung to his torn cloak, blood—his own and others'—staining his hands. The weight of his choices pressed upon his shoulders, heavier than any chain ever could.

The city lay in silence, the aftermath of destruction evident in every broken street and shattered building. Yet, within the ruins, whispers of destiny stirred. The sigil on Lucien’s arm glowed faintly, responding to the approaching presence. He turned his head, his golden eyes narrowing as a figure emerged from the shadows.

“You’re persistent,” Lucien muttered, voice hoarse but steady.

A woman stood before him, her presence demanding attention. Silver strands of hair framed her cold yet striking features, and her crimson eyes held a knowledge far beyond her years.

“Persistence is survival,” she replied, crossing her arms. “And survival is necessary for vengeance.”

Lucien chuckled, though there was little humor in it. “Is that what drives you?”

She tilted her head, watching him with an unreadable gaze. “You’re one to talk, Forsaken Monarch.”

The title stung more than he expected. He clenched his fists, ignoring the pain lacing through his wounds. “What do you want?”

“The same thing you do.” She stepped closer, her boots crunching against the rubble. “To tear apart the ones who took everything from us.”

Lucien studied her, weighing her words. Trust was a fragile thing, something he had abandoned long ago. Yet, the fire in her eyes mirrored his own, a reflection of a soul burned by fate’s cruelty.

Before he could speak, the ground trembled beneath them. A presence—dark and suffocating—loomed over the ruined city. Shadows twisted unnaturally, stretching toward them like hungry beasts.

Lucien's grip tightened around his sword. He could feel it—the arrival of something ancient, something that should have remained buried in the forgotten corners of the world.

The woman beside him exhaled, drawing a dagger laced with violet energy. “Looks like fate doesn’t believe in giving us time to talk.”

Lucien smirked despite himself. “Then let’s give fate something to remember.”

And with that, they stood side by side as the abyss opened before them, ready to face the darkness that sought to consume them both.

       THE END