Chapter 45 Protocol : Awake

When Riven opened his eyes, the ceiling was blurry, his body heavy like stone. Lucy was the first face he saw, her hair messy and eyes red.

“You’ve been out three days,” she snapped, gripping his wrist. “Don’t ever scare me like that again.”

Kira sat quietly beside her, adjusting the blanket on him. “You pushed too far,” she said flatly, though her hand lingered for a second on his shoulder.

Riven tried to laugh, but it hurt. “Guess I’m still alive.”

The door creaked. The little girl Lucy had saved stepped in, eyes wide. She hesitated, then whispered, “Thank you…” Her tiny fingers wrapped around his hand before she hurried back.

David and Julius followed after. David bowed awkwardly. “You saved us all. I… owe you.”

Julius, usually sharp-tongued, only said, “That speed… I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Before Riven could reply, the room grew tense. Three S-rank Executioners entered. The tallest man stepped forward, studying Riven.

“You stood against things meant to crush humans,” he said. “The Aegis Order could use someone like you. Join us.”

Lucy frowned instantly. “He’s not your pawn.”

Riven looked down at his scarred hands. His new skill, Cloak, pulsed faintly inside him, a reminder of the cost of the battle.

“I don’t need chains,” he said, voice low. “If I join anyone, it’ll be to fight the real enemy—not to kneel.”

The S-rank only nodded. “Think carefully. The world is changing.” Then he left.

Silence filled the room until Riven finally muttered, “I still need to get stronger.”

Lucy squeezed his hand, and Kira gave a small nod. Outside, the ruined city groaned, waiting for the next storm.