Luka's POVThe alley was too narrow, the night too dark. His best friend's breath came ragged at his side. Blood stained his shirt, but Luka didn't care — all that mattered was keeping him alive.
The man with the knife lunged again, a shadow of rage and desperation. Luka didn't think. He moved. His body became a shield.
Pain blossomed hot in his chest as the blade sank deep. His friend screamed his name, but Luka only smiled.
"It's fine… I got you."
The world tilted. Colors blurred. His legs failed him, and the ground rose up to meet him. With each shallow breath, Luka realized this was the end. But there was no fear — only peace.
"At least… I kept my promise."
Darkness claimed him.
Transition: The VoidWhen Luka opened his eyes again, there was nothing. No alley, no blood, no pain. Only endless silver mist stretching forever.
And then a voice. Smooth. Ancient. Neither male nor female, yet both at once.
"Brave. Foolish. Selfless. You died protecting another. Tell me, Luka… do you regret it?"
Luka's POVHe turned slowly. Before him stood a being of light and shadow, shifting between forms too vast for his mind to comprehend. Yet its presence wasn't terrifying. It was… absolute.
Luka shook his head. "No. I'd do it again. He was my best friend. His life was worth more than mine."
The being hummed, almost amused. "Mortals rarely mean such words. But you… you are certain. Very well. I shall grant you a choice. Your soul is strong, stronger than most I've seen. You may pass on to the cycle… or you may begin anew, in a different world."
Luka's ChoiceLuka blinked. "Another world?"
"A universe of witches, demons, angels, and devils. Power, danger, and fate entwine there. If you wish it, you may be reborn. Not as the boy you were… but as something greater."
He hesitated. He had lived a small life — quiet, human. But this? This was a chance. A chance to live for himself.
"Then… I'll go."
The being's form shimmered. "You may make three wishes, to shape what you shall become."