Chapter 5 Love's Sacrifice

The heartstone could only be made whole by a willing sacrifice. Seraphis knew what had to be done. She turned to Aldric, her golden eyes filled with the weight of centuries. "I was cursed because of love," she whispered, "and now, love must set me free." she hoped it will e her reality.

Before Aldric could stop her, she stepped forward, placing her clawed hand over the fractured heartstone. Fire erupted around her, not in destruction, but in radiant warmth. Her body shimmered, the great dragon's form dissolving into embers that coiled around the stone, drawn into its broken core.

Aldric shouted, rushing toward her, but an invisible force held him back. Seraphis met his gaze one last time, her voice echoing through the chamber. "Live, Aldric. For both of us."

A final flash of golden light engulfed the room. When it faded, where the dragon had stood, a woman knelt. Her dark hair cascaded like silk over her shoulders, and her golden eyes, filled with sorrow-and love-looked up at him. She was free, but at what cost?

Aldric fell to his knees before her, reaching out with shaking hands. "Seraphis?"

She exhaled softly, the warmth of life in her breath. "I am here."