Cairos stood before the Council.
There were nine members.
Nine people who had watched kingdoms rise and disappear.
Nine people who had signed Kael’s death order.
The oldest among them spoke.
“Bring him back.” Cairos didn’t answer.
“Commander?” “No.” The room became silent.
The Council member leaned forward.
“You misunderstand your position.” “No.
I understand it perfectly.” Cairos removed the pendant from beneath his shirt.
The split circle glowed.
“He’s not your weapon anymore.” The Council member smiled.
“You still think you can protect him.” Cairos looked at him.
“I don’t.” “Then what are you doing?” “Giving him a chance.” The Council member pressed a button.
A projection appeared.
Kael.
Standing in the Abyss.
Cairos stared.
“He has already awakened.” “Yes.” “And the Mark?” “Confirmed.” Cairos closed his eyes.
The Council member spoke softly.
“You know what happens at one hundred percent.” Cairos opened his eyes.
“That’s why you want him.” “No.” The Council member smiled.
“We want what comes after him.” Deep below, Kael entered the ruined city.
A figure waited in the centre.
Cairos.
Kael froze.
It looked exactly like him.
Same face.
Same eyes.
Same scar.
Kael raised his weapon.
“You’re not real.” The figure smiled.
“I know.” “Then what are you?” “A memory.” Kael’s grip tightened.
“Tell me the truth.” The copy stepped closer.
“You want to know who killed you?” “Yes.” The copy pointed at Kael.
“You did.” Kael’s anger flared.
“Stop saying that.” “You opened the gate.” “I was saving them.” “You were.” “You’re lying.” “I am.” Kael stopped.
The copy smiled.
“That is the problem.” A crack appeared across its face.
“You did save them.” Another crack.
“But you also killed thousands.” Kael stared.
The copy whispered: “And Cairos took the blame.” Kael’s knees weakened.
“No…” “You chose to erase yourself.” “Why?” “Because someone had to carry the sin.” The copy disappeared.
Kael stood alone.
For the first time, he understood the title.
The weight wasn’t power.
It was choice.
And somewhere beyond the ruined city, something ancient whispered: “Now you remember enough.” CREATORS’ THOUGHTS Okikiayo_Fadiji We’re finally touching the heart of the story.
Kael isn’t just discovering who betrayed him—he’s discovering what his own choices cost.
And trust me… this truth is only the first layer.