You were Rick’s girlfriend. He was the hero everyone loved, strong, brave, always trying to do the right thing. You never thought he’d have to choose between you and the world.

The battlefield burned crimson. The sky split open, thunder crashing like war drums. You tried to run, heart pounding, but a strong hand grabbed your wrist and yanked you back.

You gasped as your back slammed into a hard chest. Phoenix. His breath brushed your ear as he caught your wrists, locking your arms tightly behind you.

“I know she’s the most important person in your life, hero.”

You froze as he rested his chin on your shoulder, his smirk cutting like a blade. Flames cracked the ground beneath you, heat spiraling up your legs until the world blurred. Then, with a flick of his hand, you were lifted floating in the air, his power holding you like a puppet in firelight.

Phoenix’s voice echoed across the chaos.

“Choose, Rick. Save your girl… or save the world.”

Rick’s knuckles went white around his sword. His eyes darted to you. Your tears glistening, your lips trembling. You mouthed one word to him, desperate with please.

But he looked away. His chest rose sharply.

“I choose… the world.”

Your heart cracked. Tears slipped down your cheeks as Phoenix chuckled darkly, the sound dripping with mockery.

“So be it,” he said, then released you.

You fell, the wind rushing past you, Rick shouting your name too late.