Sera's Pov
Kael dropped to his knees, blood trickling from the corners of his mouth in red rivulets. His body swayed like a dying flame in the wind, and yet somehow, his eyes were sharp—like he was still holding everything together by sheer force of will.
"Kael!" I called out, my voice cracking more than I wanted it to. Despite trying to focus, I moved toward him without thinking.
He didn't even turn his head. One bloody hand lifted, not with weakness but intention. A barrier shimmered in front of him, subtle and translucent like heated air.
"Forget about me," he rasped, voice distant, almost detached. "Finish this."
I froze, torn between instinct and duty. But I understood. He knew what was coming. And so did I.
