Chapter 56: Wild Card
Drenched in sweat and completely overwhelmed by the situation, Damon stood frozen, lost in the chaos. Before him was the doctor whose smug expression only fueled his rage. Beyond the steel glass, he could clearly see the high-ranking officials watching with cold, calculating eyes—each face making his blood boil.
And then, the crow spoke again, asking for his final decision.
Time was still frozen. Only Damon and the crow existed in that moment, their voices untouched by the world outside. His eyes turned to Phoebe, unconscious and still. Her breathing was shallow, her body clearly weakened from the torment they both endured. The crow waited silently, patient, unblinking.
Damon stared at her intently.
He whispered to himself.
"This woman came into my life out of nowhere. She never asked for anything in return. And yet, she’s been with me through every step of my mission as The Fool. Every plan I made, she strengthened. No complaints. No fear. And she’s suffered just as much—maybe even more—under the hands of the same corrupt monsters we’re trying to bring down."
He looked back at the crow, his eyes sharper now, more resolved.
"I’m sorry," Damon said calmly.
"If you see me in my worst state right now, if you think I’ve grown too greedy with the powers I’ve gained... maybe I have. But I won’t sacrifice that woman."
He gave a small smirk—defiant and proud despite the pain wracking his body.
"Tell the one who manages you—your boss or whatever—that I reject the offer."
Damon’s voice grew firmer, burning with conviction.