Zarek's voice reverberated through the dark dimension, carrying a mix of frustration and defiance. "Don't be absurd! I'm not going to choose between my captain and my mother. There has to be another way!"
The Lightning Knight stood silent for a moment, the charged air around him intensifying. When he spoke, his voice was cold and resolute. "I'm afraid there isn't, Zarek."
The words hit Zarek like a blow. His defiance faltered, and his voice dropped to a whisper, barely audible in the oppressive stillness of the dimension. "Why? Why are you doing this to me?"
The knight's glowing eyes locked onto Zarek, unyielding in their judgment. "In the future, Cain is an existence essential for the survival of your world."
Zarek's breath caught, his fists clenching.
