The battlefield was a shattered realm between worlds, cracked stone and swirling cosmic storms framing the scene. Celestial warriors surrounded Valen, their weapons gleaming with divine light, closing in fast.
Aurelia's voice trembled with fear as she called out from behind a protective barrier.
Aurelia:"Valen, no! You don't have to do this!"
Valen's eyes, silver and resolute, met hers through the haze.
Valen:"I have no choice. If I fall now, they'll come for you and Hope next."
He turned toward the oncoming warriors, raising his arms as energy crackled around him, ready to unleash a blinding explosion.
In a whispered vow, he spoke:
"I will be the shadow that protects the light."
With a final surge, Valen unleashed a massive burst of energy that shook the battlefield, blinding friend and foe alike.
When the light faded, his body was gone—vanished without a trace.
But hidden deep within his armor, a secret pulse of life remained—waiting for the right moment to return.