Chapter 127: Chapter 127: System's Shadows

As the flames consumed the bodies of Raelar and Varick, the smoke rising towards the sky in thin, wispy tendrils, Elio stood in silent vigil.

The crackling of the fire and the soft sobs of mourners created a solemn atmosphere, heavy with the weight of loss and the promise of a new beginning.

Suddenly, the reverent silence was shattered by a voice laden with fury and anguish.

"You!"

Elio and Lucien whirled around to find themselves face to face with Angela, Varick's mother. Her face was contorted with rage and grief, her eyes red-rimmed from crying, her whole body trembling with emotion.

"You!" she screamed again, jabbing an accusing finger at Elio. "You killed my son!"

Elio felt as if he'd been punched in the stomach. The guilt he'd been trying to keep at bay threatened to overwhelm him, rising like bile in his throat. The memory of Varick's battered face flashed before his eyes, a cruel reminder of his own actions.