Namior advanced toward the portal, his golden armor battered but his resolve unshaken. The swirling energy before him beckoned, promising freedom and triumph. His lips curled into a victorious grin. "Finally," he thought, his mind racing with the possibilities of what awaited him in the outside world.
Behind him, Zarek's breaths came in ragged gasps. His trembling form struggled to rise, but his body refused to obey. The sight of Namior nearing the portal filled him with despair. Is this it?
Eva knelt beside him, tears streaming down her face. Her hands gripped his shoulders, her voice breaking. "Zarek… I'm sorry. I'm so sorry."
Zarek shook his head weakly, his voice barely above a whisper. "It's… okay, Eva. It's not your fault."
He tried to take a step forward, his determination unwavering, but his knees buckled, and he collapsed to the ground.
