For a moment—
Everything paused between war and annihilation.
Lyra turned to Gideon.
Her voice was quieter now.
"This happens often for you?"
Gideon didn't look at her.
"Yes."
"That's… not an answer."
"It is the only one I have."
Silence stretched.
Then—
Lyra stepped closer.
"You don't talk like someone who wants to live."
Gideon finally looked at her.
And something inside him shifted slightly.
"I don't know what I am supposed to want."
A pause.
Lyra lowered her hand slowly.
"…That's the most honest thing you've said."
Above them—
Azael watched.
The Null Sanctum advanced.
But for a fraction of a moment—
Something human flickered between Gideon and Lyra.
Not love.
Not yet.
Something more dangerous.
Understanding.