The name Justine hung in the air like a curse.
Lohan's breath stilled.
> "She's watching you?" he asked, voice dangerously quiet.
Ardenna nodded, her hands trembling.
> "She marked me with divine flame when I first swore loyalty to her. Back when I thought she was… kind."
> "And now?"
> "Now, I feel it burn every time I think of defying her."
Lohan's eyes narrowed.
> "That bitch really became a god."
> "She did… and she's twisted by power."
He stepped forward, gently placing his hand on her shoulder.
> "Then we'll sever that bond."
---
Meanwhile – Justine's Temple
In a chamber of light and fire, Justine sat on her throne. Her divine followers bowed before her, cloaked in red.
One of them knelt closer.
> "Lady Justine, Ardenna hesitates. Should we eliminate her?"
She smiled coldly.
> "No. She'll lead him straight to me."
---
Crimson Sky Sect – Hidden Passage
Winter slipped into a secret chamber beneath the archives. She wasn't just an S-rank mage—she was also the granddaughter of the Sect's founder.
And tonight, she had discovered something terrifying.
A hidden scroll. Sealed with the sigil of a god.
She opened it.
> "Target: Lohan Ardyn. Status: Observe. If power level exceeds protocol… eliminate."
Winter's eyes widened.
> "The sect… is working with Justine?"
---
Outside the Chamber
A shadow vanished from view.
Raze stood just around the corner, fists clenched.
> "So that's how it is…"
---