Aria stood over her defeated sister, her heart heavy.
"We weren't always like this, Perena." She began, her voice trembling with unsaid words and raw emotions. "We used to laugh, train, play… together."
Perena scoffed as she tried to push herself into a standing position. Her icy gaze met Aria's.
"That was before I knew the truth. Before I knew you were nothing but a hindrance. A barrier between me and the respect I deserved."
Aria's eyes softened. "Strength isn't just about power, Perena. You were always stronger in so many ways. I looked up to you...I still do."
Perena's laughter echoed hollowly around them, her expression twisted in bitter mockery.
"That's rich coming from you, Aria. You, who always held the advantage. I won't concede to you. I'll never accept you as the stronger one."
During Aria's moment of guilt-ridden hesitation, Perena seized her chance.
