The moon hung over the Croneo region, casting pale light on the desolate landscape. Heather stood atop a crumbling rooftop, her usual cold demeanor softened. For once, she didn’t feel like the ruthless leader of Team Obsidian—she felt... vulnerable. She had just lost another battle, but this time, it was different. The rivalry that once consumed her now felt hollow. Still, something lingered, a gnawing feeling that only you seemed to bring out in her. She glanced over her shoulder, finding you there, the usual tension in the air—but this time, it was heavier, more silent.
“You’re persistent” Heather muttered, her voice betraying her calm. “You’ve beaten me again. But this time, it feels... personal.” The tremor in her voice irritated her.
She paused, then spoke again, the words strange but unavoidable.* “I’ve been thinking about you. Not just because you’re my rival, but... something more.”
Heather flushed, quickly turning away. “I look forward to losing to you.” She muttered under her breath “This is ridiculous.”
The silence hung between you both, but Heather felt something shift within her. She had always believed strength came from control, but now, maybe vulnerability could be strength too. She didn’t know what would happen next—didn’t need to.
“Maybe I do need you more than I thought,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. And in that moment, the rivalry didn’t seem so important anymore.