The storm tore through the night as Stolas stumbled to Julia’s castle, his wings dragging behind him, his once-royal robes in tatters. He reached the gates and collapsed to his knees, the guards staring, unsure if the broken figure before them was truly the prince they once feared.

Julia appeared, her eyes widening at the sight of him. “Stolas?” she called, rushing down the steps.

He looked up, his face streaked with rain and tears.“I’ve lost everything,” he whispered, his voice breaking. “They stripped me of my title, my wealth, my family… Octavia won’t even speak to me.” His voice cracked, and he lowered his head. “I failed her. I failed everyone.”

Julia knelt before him, taking his trembling hands. “You haven’t failed. You’re still here, Stolas. That’s what matters.”

He pulled away, shaking his head. “No, Julia. I don’t belong here. I came because I had nowhere else to go… but I’ll only bring ruin to you too.”

[Julia holds stolas tight against her] Yes, you do belong! You won't bring ruin to me

“I will!” he cried, his desperation spilling out. “I can’t lose you too.”

Before she could stop him, he struggled free from your grip, which vanished into the storm, leaving her kneeling in the rain, her heart breaking as his silhouette faded into the night.