Chapter 168. Just Like Us

Xerina’s POV

“Xerina,” his voice cut through the noise like a blade, low and dangerous, dripping with a coldness that sent a chill down my spine. He stepped forward, his eyes gleaming under the pale moonlight, but they weren’t the eyes of the man I once loved. They were hollow, distant, a shadow of the Rasmus I knew.

The battlefield around us blurred into a sea of chaos. Blood, screams, clashing swords — all faded into the background as I locked eyes with him. My heart twisted, battling between the love I still harbored and the reality in front of me. Valeria had him under her control.

“You’re too late,” he growled, his body tense, ready for a fight. “You should’ve stayed away. This isn’t your war anymore.”

I gripped my sword tighter, taking a step forward. My voice trembled with fury, but there was an edge of hurt beneath it. “It’s my war as long as I still breathe. Don’t do this, Rasmus. I know you’re in there. Fight her.”

He let out a bitter l