Above the highest sky, where mortal eyes failed to reach, the Celestial Court floated—an empire of white-gold marble and drifting stars.
Within its sanctum, the gods gathered. Thrones of divine power lined the hall, each pulsing with an elemental hue.
At the center, Justine stood—no longer the soft-spoken disciple, but the Goddess of Order, draped in silver-white divine robes. Her eyes shimmered like galaxies, yet cold as void.
> "The Phoenix Core has awakened," she said. "Lohan has returned."
A ripple of unease passed among the gods.
The God of War slammed his gauntlet on the armrest.
> "He was supposed to be dead. You said the seal was perfect."
Justine didn't flinch.
> "It was. But the mortal realm is filled with chaos—and he thrives in it."
From the shadows, the God of Shadows spoke.
> "Let me erase him this time. Permanently."
But Justine raised a hand.
> "No. I'll handle him myself."
The court fell silent. For centuries, she had avoided direct intervention—but now, she was personally descending?
> "He was once my teacher. He knows our weaknesses... but I know his."
"It's time to end this. Before the Phoenix burns everything again."
---
Back in the mortal realm – Crimson Sky Mountains
Lohan stepped out of the vault, flames dancing across his coat. His aura was no longer hidden—it roared like a storm, shaking the surrounding peaks.
Winter, waiting atop the cliffs, turned to him.
> "You're changing."
> "No," Lohan said, eyes smoldering. "I'm remembering who I am."
Raze grinned, now fully healed.
> "So, what's the plan, boss?"
> "We make a declaration. A challenge they can't ignore."
---
Scene Shift – A floating tower city: Helios Capital
Every screen, every magic transmission crystal, suddenly flickered.
Lohan's face appeared—eyes burning like twin suns.
> "To the gods who betrayed me. To the disciple who raised a blade against her master."
"I'm coming for you."
"This time… I won't be merciful."
The world froze. The message was brief—but it echoed across continents.
And in the heavens, Justine watched.
> "Then come, Master," she whispered.
"Come and die again."
---