For a moment, silence fell — rich, oppressive silence — a calm before the hurricane. The soldiers tightened their grip on their weapons; Salvatore remained icy-calm, a dramatic silhouette against a purple-black sky blooming into thunderclouds.
Suddenly, a single shot rang through the heavens — a rich crack of thunder — and a man fell from the rooftop nearby, a sniper Salvatore hadn't noticed Theo's team had put in place.
A rush of movement followed. Theo raised his hand, and from all directions, his soldiers flowed forward — a rich, dramatic wave — securing positions, protecting their king and queen, closing in on their enemies.
Ava pressed against Theo's back, a small pistol in her hand. There was no fear in her; only resolve. She would fight for their future, for their family, for the life they'd bled to keep.
"For Amélia." Theo whispered, rich and raw, letting love conquer fear.
"For us." Ava answered, clicking off the safety.
The showdown was upon them. The rich heavens opened; rain fell in a dramatic sheet, adding chaos to the battle — a showdown not just for power, but for the soul of their family.