Derek's cold, merciless words resonated through the air, pounding like thunder in Asher's ears, cruel and indifferent as they echoed across the shattered earth.
"One last chance to save the woman you love most. Kneel and proclaim me your god…or watch her vanish like all the rest."
Asher's vision blurred, everything around him becoming distorted as he slowly, painfully, turned his shaking head towards Rowena. She knelt there, her majestic figure now broken and hunched, mourning amidst the drifting remains of those they'd loved and cherished. Her crimson eyes, usually so fierce and unyielding, were empty and broken, staring numbly at the cold emptiness surrounding her.
"Rowena..." Asher whispered, voice trembling, a painful lump rising in his throat. He could feel the tears burning behind his eyes, the overwhelming guilt and grief threatening to crush him entirely.
The Immortal Sovereign's voice dripped with cold amusement as he spoke again.
