Chapter 64. Representing Pride
Lucian’s grey eyes, weak but stubborn, looked up as Leo stood over him, crimson eyes burning with anger and pain. Lucian’s bloody lips managed a faint smile. "Big... brother," he whispered, voice rough, barely there, full of hurt and relief. His eyes closed, body slumping.
Leo dropped to his knees, grabbing Lucian before he fell, his arms shaking under the weight. Blood soaked Lucian’s torn coat, staining Leo’s hands red.
He forced a shaky grin. "You’re too heavy, dumbass." The joke hid his fear, looking at Lucian’s wrecked body—ribs crushed, thigh stabbed, hands torn from his shattered blade.
Lucian coughed, blood on his lips, giving a weak laugh. "Don’t... make me sound lame," he mumbled, too tired to say more.
Leo stood, lifting Lucian with a grunt, nearly stumbling. He turned, and his crimson eyes locked onto Valtharion’s glowing purple ones across the clearing. His stare was pure rage, so fierce it made even Valtharion pause, a tiny flicker of doubt in his stance.
Leo walked forward, holding Lucian, eyes never leaving Valtharion’s. Each step was bold, like he didn’t care about the danger. Valtharion didn’t move, didn’t lift his sword—just watched, like a wolf eyeing new prey.
Leo just passed him and walked towards the students.
Velmira ran from the group, tears running down her face, her staff falling to the ground. "Lucian!" she yelled, voice cracking as she saw his bloody, broken body.
She stood in front, hands shaking, her golden magic glowing as she touched Lucian’s chest. He turned his head, barely, a small smile showing. "Vel... seems you’re okay," he whispered.
Velmira’s hands shook as her magic checked his wounds, her face white. "He’s... almost gone," she choked, voice full of fear. "Broken ribs, cut lungs, so many gashes. His leg’s ruined, hands..." She stopped, crying, magic flickering.
Leo’s jaw tightened, voice low. "Can you save him?"