“No—!”

Aurelius’s scream tore through the air, sharp enough to sound like it was ripping apart.

There was denial in it. Confusion. And the final collapse of a man who had run out of options.

Even in his last moment, he couldn’t understand why Skylar was killing him.

He had offered help. He had tried to ally with him. He had lowered himself, cast aside his dignity—so why…

The demonic flames receded.

Aurelius’s body had already been reduced to ash, scattering into the air.