Final Confrontation

Marcus didn't wait.

He surged forward, his blade a flash of silver. The reflection barely had time to react before Marcus's attack connected. Glass shattered, and the reflection stumbled, its twisted grin flickering.

"You're done," Marcus growled.

But the reflection wasn't finished. It let out an inhuman screech, and the mirrors around them cracked, releasing torrents of darkness.

Emily's scream cut through the chaos. The shadows had almost consumed her.

"No more!" Marcus roared. He struck again, faster and harder, driving the reflection back.

"Kill me," the reflection hissed. "And you become me."

"I don't believe you."

Marcus's next blow sent the reflection crashing into the ground. But before he could finish it, the darkness surged upward, forming a massive figure—a towering beast with glowing eyes.

"Save her," the reflection whispered. "Or fight me. You can't do both."

Marcus's heart pounded. The choice was impossible.

Emily's voice broke through the storm. "I believe in you…"

And that was all he needed.

Marcus moved like lightning, leaping toward the dark beast. His blade sang through the air, cutting deep into the creature's form. It roared, but Marcus didn't stop. Strike after strike, he pushed it back.

The reflection watched, its eyes wide with fear.

Finally, with one last desperate blow, Marcus pierced the beast's heart.

The darkness shattered.

Emily collapsed as the mirrors around them dissolved.

The reflection's form flickered, then faded.

It was over.

Marcus rushed to Emily's side, gathering her in his arms.

"Stay with me," he whispered.

Her eyes fluttered open.

"You… did it," she breathed.

But before Marcus could respond, a cold voice echoed from the shadows.

"You've only just begun."