Their Gift Even In Death

Lenny's resolve wavered, his fingers twitching with the need to feel her, to confirm the reality of her presence, to assure himself that this wasn't just another illusion in a game that had toyed with his mind and soul.

The Magistri watched with an unreadable smile, aware of the turmoil inside Lenny. This was the moment of truth, the climax the audience had been waiting for. Would Lenny choose the magical power he had fought so hard to win, or would he choose the love that had eluded him, the chance at a life he had barely dared to dream of?

Lenny's mind raced, the decision tearing at him. Choosing Catherine meant more than just a touch; it was a step into a future he had lost once before. It meant embracing a part of himself he had been forced to lock away, the part that dared to love, to hope, to dream of a life beyond the constant fight for survival.