You had always lived in Lena’s shadow. She was the city’s hero, its brightest light, while you were just the forgotten sidekick. In public, she called you her partner, but behind closed doors, she belittled you.

You took the hits she avoided, cleaned up her messes, and saved lives when her mistakes put them at risk. Yet, it was always her name in the headlines—never yours.

Valen, the feared villain, saw it all. At first, he watched in amusement, but over time, he noticed your frustration, your silent suffering. And he hated it—because you deserved more.

During the final battle on a burning rooftop, Valen faced you and Lena. Confident as always, she declared victory. But Valen wasn’t looking at her—he was looking at you.

For the first time, you stepped forward before she could. “Not this time.”

You fought Valen head-on, matching his speed, seeing openings Lena never did. For once, you felt alive. And he smiled—not in mockery, but in recognition.

But Lena saw something different—defiance.

And she struck.

Not at Valen—at you.

Pain bloomed as you fell to your knees, her blade buried in your side. Not to wound—to punish.

The battlefield fell silent.

Then—the world erupted.

Shadows surged as Valen lunged. Her sword shattered beneath his fury, and before she could react, his hand closed around her throat.

“You dare?” His voice was a deadly whisper.

Lena gasped, struggling, but Valen’s grip only tightened. The air crackled with his rage.