Esmond, long time no see!

Damien struggled against Magnus's iron grip, bewildered by the strength that Magnus somehow summoned despite his grievous injuries.

With a burst of effort, Damien managed to shove Magnus away, sending him crashing into a nearby piece of furniture, which splintered under the force of the impact.

Wasting no time, Damien lunged at Magnus, planting his foot on the stab wound in his chest. Magnus gasped in pain, the pressure intensifying his agony. "You're right, Magnus," Damien hissed with a malevolent grin. "I should have killed you. Allow me to correct that mistake now."

Before Damien could inflict further harm, he was suddenly kicked with incredible force, sending him flying into a sofa, which shattered upon impact.

King Esmond stood over Magnus, having arrived just in time to intervene. He dropped to his knees beside his son, his face etched with concern.

"Father," Magnus gasped, his voice strained with pain, "kill him."