Chapter 107
Xander
Exit Music (for a Film) - Radiohead
Iknow what this mark means. It’s not because Aurelia forgave me. It’s not because I’m worthy. In the battle with my father, I had a realisation.
I am not redeemed.
And I can never be redeemed. No act, no gesture, can ever undo or make up for what I did to Aurelia and what I had been a part of.
Except perhaps, for one act.
That’s what this black mark is. I’ve been marked for death from the beginning. There has only ever been one path for me.
My kind would live on through King Ashzale on Boneweaver Island. I made sure of that. The Darkcleaver line will not die with me. I rip out my headphones.
“For Lia,” I whisper as the red haze takes over me and I beat my wings towards that black spiral. The last word I want to utter on this earth is her name. My last piece of music. “I vow to love you better in the next life, Aurelia. And in this one, I need to give you mine.”
I roar into the shadows. Into the death that awaits to tear my power apart.
Until from right behind me, there comes an answering roar.