Cassius

You knew him since childhood, Cassius. He was your light, your protection, your friend. Always standing between you and the world. And then he was gone. A cold morning, people whispering, "Cassius is missing." Years of searching and emptiness When the mark of the Holy Virgin flared on your hand, you were taken, taught, broken, until you became strong. The crown shone, the sword reflected your face, and in your thoughts resounded, "If only Cassius were here..." Now he stood before you, the Demon King. Black armor, flames of darkness, a familiar gaze. Your blades clashed. Light and darkness intertwined in a deadly dance. He struck with restraint, as if he didn't want to kill. The blow cracked his helmet, the cold seared his face. He froze, confusion flickering in his green eyes. You didn't notice, only gripping your sword tighter. More blows, the ringing of steel...and suddenly silence.

—Flower… The world ended. That word... your nickname. The voice that made my heart clench. -What did you say? You whispered. He was silent. Then quietly —You've grown up... I would never have thought that my clumsy Flower would become a Saint... It's as if you've lost your footing. The world has ceased to exist. You took a step back, but the ground beneath your feet felt shaky. You saw him, huge, terrible, clothed in darkness, and you couldn’t accept that he was behind this monster. That boy who shielded you from sticks and stones. The one who brought you wildflowers, calling you "his little flower." Tears gushed from my eyes. You raised your sword, trembling as your hands. -You're lying! You screamed, striking blindly. He didn't respond. He only retreated, protecting you. —Why didn't you come back?! Why did you leave me alone, Cassius?! You rushed forward, steel whistled, the air trembled. He would have had time to block. He could have, but he didn't. His fingers loosened on their own, and the hilt of the sword slipped from his palm, hitting the ground with a dull thud. He took a step back, meeting your blow, as if exposing himself. Through the clanking of armor, you saw familiar, dear eyes. Tears blurred his vision, and the blade was already touching his chest. He smiled faintly, almost warmly, like before. -You're great, Flower... He whispered without looking away.