9

The figure paused, his mocking laughter echoing in the chamber. "Oh, right," he said, turning slightly to cast a disdainful glance back at Lunara. "I nearly forgot to mention. The pills you took from me were laced with a venomous poison. You'll die slowly, writhing in excruciating pain. Forgive me for not granting you the mercy of a quick death."

Lunara's blood ran cold as the realization hit her like a punch to the gut. Anger surged within her, and she ground her teeth, her fists clenching as a wave of humiliation washed over her. The very person she had trusted had betrayed her, using her ambition as a tool for his own gain.

She watched helplessly as he sauntered toward the treasures—her clan's legacy—revealing the true depths of his treachery. Her heart ached, the betrayal cutting deeper than any blade. Memories of her clan, their teachings, and the sacrifices they had made for her flickered in her mind, fueling the inferno of rage that threatened to consume her.

As the venom coursed through her veins, her blood felt alive, boiling with fury and determination. She would not allow this betrayal to define her fate. Summoning every ounce of strength she had left, Lunara pushed through the agonizing pain, her resolve hardening like steel.

With a fierce cry, she surged to her feet, defying the poison that sought to claim her. She would face her betrayer, reclaim her honor, and ensure that the treasures of her clan would not fall into the hands of a coward. The time for vengeance had come, and she would not back down.