Hercules staggered, his massive frame heaving with each labored breath. Sweat glistened on his bronzed skin, and his lion-skin cloak, once a symbol of indomitable strength, now hung tattered and singed. Yet, even as fatigue gnawed at his body, his ever-defiant grin remained firmly etched on his face.
"I've wrestled lions," he muttered through clenched teeth, his voice a low rumble of defiance. "I've slain hydras. Faced giants. If I fall now, then what were all my labors for?"
Lucius hovered above, his dark form a stark contrast against the swirling, ominous skies. His shadows twisted and coiled around him like vipers, responding to his every whim. His glowing red eyes locked onto Hercules, narrowing with irritation.
"Still standing?" Lucius sneered, his voice a chilling blend of disdain and amusement. "You're more stubborn than I thought. But it won't save you."
