The battle in the valley had reached its peak. The ground was drenched in blood and dust, the air heavy with echoes of screams. The Dark Commander's massive blade split the earth with every strike, a thunderous force none could withstand.
The group stood battered, their strength nearly spent. The Silent Sorceress was burning the last of her power to maintain fragile shields. The Runaway Prince, wounded and bleeding, gasped for breath. Yet the Exiled Warrior still fought, his rage and resolve keeping him locked against the towering foe.
Arin felt despair gnawing at their hearts. The enemy was too strong. Victory seemed impossible. Then, the Exiled Warrior's voice rang out:
"You must live… the Path of Glory means nothing without you."
Arin shouted in panic:
"No! We fight together! No one is left behind!"
But the warrior only gave a bitter smile. His eyes reflected a lifetime of regret and exile. Now, at last, he had found a chance to redeem himself.
With a roar, he charged the Dark Commander head-on. Blow after blow, his strikes hammered the giant back. With one final cry, he drove his blade deep into the monster's chest.
A violent surge of dark energy exploded outward, flinging everyone back. When the dust cleared, only the warrior's shattered sword remained upon the ground.
Arin fell to his knees, tears burning in his eyes. The Exiled Warrior was gone… but his sacrifice had bought them a chance to continue.
That night, they learned that the Path of Glory was not only built on battles and triumphs—but on pain, loss, and the price of hope.