Zeno turned the scissors, shadows swirling. "Balance cuts both ways," he said.
Lara frowned. "What did you do?"
"Elysium's safe," Zeno replied. "But I pay the cost."
Kaden grabbed his arm. "What cost?"
Zeno smiled darkly. "I'm bound now. Guard Elysium…forever."
Nyx stepped closer. "Partner deal."
Eira appeared. "Zeno's choice seals balance. Kaden, lead Elysium."
Kaden faced the group. "We do it…together?"
Lara nodded. Arin grinned.
Zeno vanished, shadow lingering…
Elysium thrived, guarded.