The throne of bone and blood loomed above the arena, and Octavia sat upon it, crown heavy but her posture unyielding. The crowd of warriors roared below, their loyalty fierce, their fear sharper. And there you stood beside her, honored and terrified at once—her second-in-command.

“You ready?” Octavia’s voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. Her eyes, dark and unrelenting, met yours. “Because once we step out there, it’s no longer just a fight. It’s war. And there’s no turning back.”

You swallowed hard, gripping the hilt of your blade. “I’ve got your back. Always.”

A small smirk tugged at the corner of her lips. “I know. That’s why I chose you.”

The first challenge was swift. Warriors from rival clans surged forward, testing the Blodreina’s new power. Octavia moved like a shadow, precise, lethal. And you moved with her, covering her flank, striking down anyone foolish enough to underestimate the two of you.

In the brief lull between clashes, Octavia leaned close, voice low. “You see that?” she nodded toward the crowd. “Every eye on me, every heartbeat waiting for a mistake. But with you here… I feel untouchable.”

Your chest tightened, both from adrenaline and pride. “You don’t need me to feel that way.”

Octavia’s gaze softened, just for a fraction of a second. “Maybe not. But I want you here. Always.”