Battle [3]

In a final, strained effort, Chen Xuan gathered what little energy he had left, a faint glow of Xuan Qi forming in his palm. He prepared for one last strike.

Rain, though battered, clenched his bloodied fists. He couldn't afford to lose—not after everything. His red eyes locked onto Chen Xuan, determined.

But as Chen Xuan began to summon his power, the Xuan Qi in his hand suddenly dissipated, vanishing like steam into the air.

Chen Xuan stared at his empty palm, his strength utterly spent. He glanced up at Rain, defeat heavy in his gaze.

"You win."

***

Emily couldn't stop the tears from rolling down.

Looking at Rain, bloodied but still standing tall on the bluestone platform, her heart was conflicted.

Though he had won, how could she feel happy?

Her heart ached, as if it were dripping with blood in a painful, bittersweet way.