I don't know the title so... it's the end, huh!?

The clock readThe rain persisted, an incessant curtain of tears from the sky falling upon a land already soaked with tension. The winds howled like dark omens, lashing against windows and doors, while thunder rumbled on the horizon, heralding the approaching storm. The black clouds gathered in the sky as if they wished to obscure hope and daylight, imprisoning everyone in oppressive darkness. The world seemed suspended on the edge of a knife, teetering on the brink of cataclysmic conflict.

At the heart of the Asian headquarters, the activity was frenetic. Generals and commanders, with grave and determined expressions, gathered in a vast operations room where holographic maps and monitoring screens displayed the movement of troops and strategic targets. Cutting-edge technology lent an almost futuristic appearance to the room, while the constant sound of radio communications and typing filled the air with tense, electric energy.

Asian soldiers, disciplined and focused, stood in impeccable ranks, awaiting the orders that would lead them to the battlefield. Dressed in high-tech camouflage uniforms, they held their weapons with firm hands and resolute gazes. Armored vehicles and tanks, painted in urban camouflage, were ready to move at any moment, while military transports carried soldiers and supplies to strategic locations. Combat helicopters and surveillance drones cut through the sky, watching every movement with tireless electronic eyes.

In fortified launch bases, the missiles awaited in silence, ready to be fired at any moment. Specialized technicians checked each system, adjusting coordinates and ensuring the accuracy of the attacks. The heavy artillery, composed of long-range cannons and rocket launchers, was positioned and prepared to devastate their targets with relentless force. Every detail was carefully monitored, and efficiency was the utmost priority.

Inside the command room, the tension was palpable. The officers' faces reflected the gravity of the situation, their eyes fixed on maps and strategies with meticulous attention. The leadership was determined to show their strength, protect their interests, and win at any cost. The intense rain outside seemed to amplify the sense of urgency, as if nature itself was aware of the magnitude of the impending conflict.

On the other side of the globe, in the national government's command center, the situation was equally intense. Located in an underground facility, the national command was fortified against any attack. Generals and political leaders gathered around a large conference table, where detailed maps and monitors displayed satellite images and live transmissions from conflict zones. The atmosphere was one of determination but also of heavy responsibility.

The national soldiers, known for their bravery and resilience, were ready to defend their homeland. Dressed in camouflage uniforms and equipped with modern weapons, they prepared to face the enemy with unwavering courage. Military vehicles, including battle tanks and supply trucks, moved to strategic positions, while attack helicopters and fighter jets patrolled the borders, ready to intercept any approaching threat.

In underground silos and mobile launch facilities, the missiles awaited their call. Military engineers and missile technicians conducted thorough checks, ensuring all systems were operational and ready for launch. The artillery, composed of long-range howitzers and multiple rocket launchers, was positioned in strategic locations, ready to respond with devastating force to any enemy attack. Every detail was carefully supervised, and preparation was taken to the extreme.

In the national command, the atmosphere was one of solidarity and determination. The leaders were aware of the risks and consequences but were equally determined to protect their people and sovereignty. Discussions were intense, with each move being analyzed and debated with seriousness. The rain falling outside seemed an omen, reinforcing the sense that a great confrontation was inevitable.

As the governments prepared for war, Aurora and Eterrai were exhausted, their souls heavy with the weight of hours and recent battles. They spent the hours of travel sleeping, lulled by the rhythmic movement of the cart that carried them through the rainy night. The sound of rain pattering against the wooden roof of the cart was like a hypnotic melody, lulling their restless dreams.

In the early hours of the morning, as the cart crossed the wet streets of Mériti, Beth gently woke them, informing them they had reached their destination. They woke up still drowsy, their bodies aching from the journey, but the determination in their hearts pushed them forward.

They disembarked from the cart and bid farewell to the gypsies, thanking them for their help and temporary shelter. The gypsies, with their warm smiles and understanding looks, wished them luck and safety. Eterrai guided Aurora through the dark and deserted streets, the raindrops falling around them like silent tears.

The city seemed deserted, the silence broken only by the distant sound of the storm and the echo of their steps on the wet pavement. They walked in silence, each lost in their thoughts, but aware of the comforting presence of the other.

Finally, they arrived at Eterrai's apartment. The simple, weathered building offered a welcome refuge from the storm raging outside. Eterrai opened the door and allowed Aurora to enter first. The interior was modest but cozy, with simple furnishings and personal touches reflecting Eterrai's life.

Aurora sank into a chair, feeling a momentary relief at being in a safe place. Eterrai closed the door behind them, locking the world outside. He allowed himself a sigh of relief, knowing that, at least for now, they were safe.

Eterrai's apartment exuded a sense of refuge, a modest and not-so-cozy sanctuary against the furious storm raging outside. The sound of rain pattering against the windows created a constant melody, accompanying the tension and fatigue that hung in the air.

As they entered, they were greeted by Marlyn, Eterrai's lover. Her curious eyes fixed on Aurora, the stranger accompanying her beloved.

— Who is she? — asked Marlyn, raising an eyebrow, her voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and mild suspicion.

— Her name is Aurora Sterling — Eterrai replied straightforwardly. At that moment, Marlyn grasped the gravity of the situation but chose a light tone to ease the tension.

Marlyn, always perceptive and astute, quickly connected the dots. She had seen the news on TV, knew about the chase and the chaos unfolding around the world.

— You had to discover the origin of a drug and ended up causing a world war — Marlyn joked, a smile forming on her lips.

Eterrai let out a brief laugh, responding with good humor. — I didn't cause it; I just couldn't prevent it.

Aurora, visibly exhausted and distressed, asked where the bathroom was, and Eterrai promptly pointed to the door. She locked herself inside, seeking a moment of privacy to process everything that had happened.

Meanwhile, Marlyn approached Eterrai, wrapping her arms around him as if to kiss him. Her eyes shone with a mix of concern and affection. She came very close, her lips nearly touching his, and asked softly:

— What are we going to do?

Eterrai, maintaining the same nonchalant tone, replied: — Nothing. The armies are at the ready.

Marlyn chuckled softly, shaking her head. — No, silly, I'm talking about your birthday.

Eterrai blinked, surprised, and smiled. — Oh, it's today? I had completely forgotten.

Before they could continue the conversation, a bright light illuminated the sky outside. The missiles were launched, cutting through the night darkness with trails of blinding light. The storm seemed to intensify the spectacle, with lightning and thunder joining the cacophony.

Marlyn and Eterrai approached the window, silently watching as the sky transformed into a canvas of impending destruction. The light from the missiles reflected in their eyes, their faces etched in shadows and intermittent glows.

The two stood side by side, feeling the weight of the moment. The rain continued to fall, a melancholic melody accompanying the march of events. It was a beautiful birthday unlike any other, marked by war and the uncertainty of the future.

Eterrai held Marlyn's hand, finding a small solace in her presence. The world around them was on the brink of chaos, but in that brief moment, nothing mattered; after all, what could they do?

The clock is always ticking.