Lorelai slowly knelt, her breath becoming more labored. Though her injury wasn't severe, the Blood Rose Poison was destroying her mana control and making her feel powerless. The energy she once controlled slipped through her fingers like sand, weakening her.
Seeing her lose the ability to fight back, Vanessa strode forward with a casual grace. A small, curved dagger appeared in her hands, conjured from her blood. It would deliver the final blow despite its small size.
"Wait..."
"...?"
Aster's voice broke the tension. Despite being cursed again, he seemed unaffected. He stood up slowly, gathering his remaining strength. He lumbered to Vanessa's side, limping but determined to face what was to come.
Vanessa supported Aster without speaking. Together, they approached Lorelai, who was limp but alive, gasping for breath.
"Lory..." Various emotions filled Aster's voice. He seemed pleading instead of confident. "Is this the only way?"
