章 1240: A World of Darkness

As Arthur emerged from the portal, the golden light fading into the dimness of the cavern, his tentative steps betrayed his new reality of darkness. Diana, heart sinking at the sight of the golden scars sealing his eyes, rushed to his side.

"What happened, Arthur?" Her voice trembled with concern as her fingers gently traced the lines of the scars.

Arthur turned his face towards her, attempting a reassuring smile. "I've made a choice, Diana. To stabilize the chaos from the merging worlds and to ensure your safety, Gaia demanded a price. My sight was that price," he explained calmly, his voice steady though it masked an undercurrent of resignation.

Tears welled up in Diana's eyes, her voice thickening with resolve as she replied, "No, Arthur. This is too great a price. We have to find another way. Maybe I can talk to Gaia—"