Athena managed a small smile, shaking her head. "So did I."
As the oppressive darkness around them began to lift, revealing the way forward, Cyrus sheathed his blade and turned to Athena. "Let's get out of here."
They walked side by side, the weight of the battle still heavy on their shoulders, but with the knowledge that they had survived—together.
The quiet after their hard-won victory was short-lived.
Cyrus stood catching his breath, a tired laugh escaping his lips. The sight of the [Victory] panel felt like a reprieve, a sign that they had earned a moment of peace. But before he could fully relax, the panel flickered. The word "Victory" slowly faded away, replaced by another message that caused Cyrus's blood to run cold: [Round 5].
A shiver crept down his spine. His nervous laughter returned as he muttered, "This can't be serious…"
