Vol.4/Chapter 6: Between Two Flames

Luca's POV:

The void stretched around me—endless, suffocating, and blacker than the deepest night. I stood alone… or so I thought.

Then came the voice. Smooth. Mocking. Familiar in the worst possible way.

“Well, well… look at you. All grown up. Trying so hard to be a hero.”

The shadows twisted ahead, forming into a version of myself—but colder. Taller. Drenched in burning scars and trailing ash with every step. His eyes burned crimson, his grin feral and amused.

Azrael.

“Didn’t think I’d see you again so soon,” I muttered, trying to control the growing heat pulsing in my chest. “Thought I buried you.”

Azrael tilted his head, mockingly thoughtful. “Oh, you did try. But burying a part of yourself? Cute idea, really. Shame it never works.”

I clenched my fists, my breath ragged. “You’re not me.”