CONVENTS OF SHADOW AND LIGHT

Bent toward the floor, wracked by violent coughs and spitting blood—poison coursing through my veins courtesy of my own family. How could they? Even if I'm not their flesh and blood, how could they betray me like this? My gaze flickered up to meet theirs, twisted in cruel anticipation, my mother, father, and sister, watching me with chilling detachment as if waiting for a morbid spectacle to unfold. Fury surged within me, a molten tide of rage and betrayal mingled with a raw desire for vengeance. I wanted to wrap my hands around their throats, to feel the warmth drain from their bodies, to see the fear in their eyes as they realized their mistake.

And then, as if in response to my silent plea, something stirred—a voice, dark and seductive, whispering promises of retribution.

"Do you seek revenge?" it chuckled, a sinister edge to its tone.

I didn't hesitate. "Yes," I rasped, each word laced with the metallic tang of blood.

"Good," it purred. "I can help you. All you need to do is offer me their souls."

I nodded, a fervent agreement fueled by pain and anger. "Take whatever you want," I spat, my voice thick with venom. "Just make them pay."