The arrow never reached her, let alone piercing her. Emira lifted her hand without even turning fully. Her fingers flicked through the air as if flicking away an insect and the arrow shattered instantly, dissolving into fine golden sparks that vanished before they could touch the ground.
A soft glow lingered around her hand for a brief moment. The blessing of the Golden Goddess wrapped around her like a quiet shield, reflecting under the light for all to see.
Emira lowered her hand slowly and turned. Her gaze settled on Aron Mast.
He was no longer standing still. Instead, he was standing in front of Shiqi, as if protecting her.
He stepped forward once their eyes met. The air shifted with him, and the dark magic stirred...
"Mira," he said slowly. "You promised me. You said I could have my revenge."
He stopped a few steps away from her as his voice dropped lower. "Shiqi belongs to me."
Emira raised an eyebrow slightly.
