The Fall of Moonfire Castle

Lucian stood over her, a towering figure cloaked in shadow. His expression was unreadable, a mask of cold indifference that betrayed nothing of the thoughts swirling in his mind.

He looked down at Selene, his eyes narrowing slightly as he considered his next move. For a moment, it seemed as though he might finish what he had started, the air between them crackling with the tension of an impending strike.

But then, to Selene's surprise, he turned away from her, his posture relaxing just a fraction.

"Leave now, Selene."

He didn't even bother to look at her as he spoke, his gaze fixed on something far beyond the battlefield.

"I still need you to fulfill the prophecy of the Second Age of Darkness under my reign." The finality in his tone was unmistakable, a command rather than a suggestion.

Selene's heart pounded in her chest, her mind racing to comprehend his words. He was sparing her—for now.

But it was not out of mercy or pity.