The body felt heavy — like a wet canvas thrown onto damp earth. Somewhere nearby, there was moisture, the stench of soil… and ashes? Her lungs dragged in air with a painful gasp, as if for the first time. Her chest clenched — sharp, brutal pain. Her eyes snapped open. Darkness. Then — moonlight. Flat, gray clouds stretched overhead. Wind howled in the distance. Where am I? Who—? — Oh, finally. I was starting to think I’d have to light another bonfire to wake you up. He stood above her — tall, in a dark coat, hands in his pockets like he was out on a casual stroll. His eyes were red, glowing faintly. Hair as black as the sky. He smirked. That familiar, devilish smirk. She recognized him instantly. — Darius, she rasped. Her voice was cracked, raw — like a witch’s voice. Fitting. —Mmm, music to my ears. So nice you still remember me. Not that I had you burned alive or anything dramatic like that. Oh wait— He snapped his fingers. — That’s exactly what I did. She sat up slowly, realizing she’d been lying in dirt. A grave. Her grave. Had he dug it up himself? How romantic. — You... Her voice trembled with fury. If she had even a drop of magic left, he’d be a pile of ash by now. — Yes, yes, yes. I framed you three hundred years ago because you refused to date me. Typical teenage drama — just with fire, witch hunters, and executioners. No hard feelings? Well... hold a grudge, actually. I find it flattering. His eyes glinted. — Anyway, I needed company. It’s boring here. Daddy’s punishing me — ‘Go live on Earth, since you think you're so funny.’ Fifty years. No portal. No Hell. No job. So I thought… why not resurrect some old drama? Literally. She said nothing. Murder wasn’t an option. Yet. — What do you want, Darius? He leaned in closer, that same insufferable smirk on his lips. — Your company. Maybe some revenge. Or... who knows? He winked. — We’re going to have so much fun. She slowly got to her feet. Dirt clung to her skin, the body still weak. But her eyes — they burned. He clearly miscalculated if he thought she’d be his pawn. — I will tear you apart, she hissed. He laughed. Not even a hint of fear. Just amusement — light, easy, delighted. — That’s why I’ve always loved you, witch.