Chapter 39:

Betrayer's Gambit

Veil of the Shadow Hunter


The corridor leading to the third floor of the Time Guardians' tower was cloaked in shadow, the air thick with tension. Leegna, brimming with confidence, confronted Aternos, his eyes flashing with the dark blue hue of the pact power. The two stood poised for a fight, their powers crackling in the oppressive silence.

From the shadows, Yuj observed with growing intrigue. His presence remained concealed, yet his gaze was fixed on Leegna and Aternos. His mind raced, trying to piece together the sudden shift in Leegna's demeanor.

Yuj (whispering to himself): "What is he up to? How does he know so much? And why is he turning against Aternos now?"

Yuj's curiosity turned to confusion as he watched Leegna's arrogance manifest. The young man seemed to possess an insight and confidence that defied the ordinary. It was as if he had peered into a realm of secrets beyond Yuj's own understanding.

Leegna's voice broke through Yuj's thoughts, laced with contempt as he addressed Aternos. "I can't let you walk beside me any longer. I know what lies behind that door. I know the Guardians are prepared, and I know you've been leading me straight into their trap."

Aternos' face hardened, the friendly demeanor replaced with cold calculation. "So, you've figured it out. Impressive. But do you think you can handle the Guardians alone?"

Yuj watched intently, his eyes narrowing. The dynamic between Leegna and Aternos was shifting, revealing cracks in their alliance. Yuj knew Aternos was a key player, but Leegna's newfound resolve and knowledge were baffling. How had Leegna gained such insight into their plans?

Leegna's tone was laced with arrogance. "I don't need to handle them alone. I have my powers, my ring, and I'm not afraid to use them. You're just another obstacle in my path."

As the battle erupted, Leegna's movements were swift and decisive. His glove transformed into a flurry of strikes, pushing Aternos back with relentless force. Yuj observed, torn between admiration for Leegna's prowess and frustration over the young man's betrayal of Aternos.

Yuj (thinking): "How does he know everything? What kind of power does he wield that allows him to see through our plans?"

Aternos struggled to keep pace, his defenses faltering under Leegna's onslaught. "You've underestimated me, Leegna. Big mistake."

Leegna: "Is this the best you've got? I thought you were supposed to be one of the Twelve."

Leegna's final, powerful strike landed with precision, sending Aternos reeling. As Aternos fell, Yuj's frustration reached its peak. The plan was unraveling, and Leegna's unexpected actions were complicating things further.

Yuj (emerging from the shadows, his voice cold): "It seems our little game has taken an unexpected turn. But why, Leegna? Why do you know so much?"

Leegna, panting but resolute, turned to face Yuj. "You're next. If you think you can stand in my way, you're mistaken."

Yuj's eyes narrowed as he took in Leegna's defiant stance. He could see the determination and power radiating from the young man, but the questions remained. How had Leegna gained such insight? What was driving him to challenge the very entities that Yuj was working with?

Yuj (calmly): "Before we clash, Leegna, let me offer you a proposition. I know Gersong's secret. I can help you rid yourself of the remaining Guardians. But in return, you must trust me. Our goals may align, but that alignment won't last forever."

Leegna's eyes flashed with a mix of suspicion and curiosity. "You know Gersong's secret? Why should I believe you?"

Yuj: "Because, Leegna, you need me. I have the knowledge and the power to aid you, but remember this: our truce will be as fleeting as the shadows we both navigate."

Leegna considered Yuj's offer, his mind racing with the implications. The prospect of gaining an ally, even a dubious one, was tempting. Yet, the trepidation of betrayal lingered.

Leegna (after a moment of contemplation): "Very well. For now, I will accept your help. But know this, Yuj: if you betray me, I will not hesitate to end you."

Yuj's smile was enigmatic, his eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and hidden agendas. "We shall see, Leegna. We shall see."

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