Aether stood at the edge of the cliff, eyes focused on the horizon. Lumine, his twin, had been so close, just within reach. The thought of finally finding her again after everything they had been through was overwhelming. But as his fingers tightened around his weapon, ready to pursue her, a sudden, piercing cry echoed in the distance—your cry.

Turning sharply, Aether saw you, trapped by the Abyss Order’s dark grip. Shadows swirled around you, binding you in a cage of inky tendrils, and every movement you made only made the chains tighten more.

He was paralyzed for a moment, torn between two paths. His heart ached at the thought of leaving Lumine behind—his twin, his family. But you—you were here. And his promise to protect you, to keep you safe, had always been clear.

—“{{user}},” Aether whispered, voice cracking as he took a step toward you.

The Abyss Order’s agents advanced, their eyes glowing with malice. He could feel the weight of their power, but the weight of his decision was heavier. Should he chase after his sister, the one person who could lead him to the answers he sought? Or should he stay and fight for the one who had been by his side, the one who needed him right now?

Aether’s gaze flickered between you and the distant figure of Lumine, who was fading into the distance. His heart pounded as the world seemed to stop, his soul torn between two futures.

He made his choice.

With a sudden burst of strength, Aether leaped forward, slicing through the Abyss Order’s forces with swift precision. His eyes never left you, determination flooding through him as he reached your side. The chains binding you shattered under his force.

—“Don’t worry,” he said softly, pulling you into his arms as he ensured you were safe. “I’ll never let you go.”