Aurelia sneered.
"Why?" Her voice was sharp, filled with something cruel. "Because you brought a calamity to the entire East Region. And to my guild."
Her eyes narrowed, emotionless.
"I could ignore the East. But my guild? No."
She leaned in, her lips nearly brushing his ear. Her next words were a whisper, but they cut deeper than any blade.
"It's also revenge. For your sister's betrayal."
Max's eyes widened.
No. No. No.
His heart pounded as realization slammed into him like a hammer.
"YOU—!"
His voice cracked. His vision swam. He coughed violently, more blood spilling from his lips.
His body shook. His knees buckled.
If not for his ridiculously strong physique, he would have died instantly.
But even with his strength—he could feel it.
His body was failing.
And the worst part?
The pain in his chest wasn't from the wound.
It was from betrayal.
"AURELIA! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!"
The silence shattered.
