Lucius walked at an unhurried pace, his hands tucked in the pockets of his long, dark coat. His shadow stretched unnaturally, shifting and twisting as if alive. He had felt the military's presence long before they had even noticed him.
A smirk played on his lips. "They never learn."
A moment later, spotlights flared to life, bathing the cracked pavement in harsh white light. Dozens of soldiers emerged from their hiding spots, weapons trained on him.
Arris' voice boomed from a speaker attached to a nearby drone.
"Lucius Noctis. Surrender now, and you might live."
Lucius tilted his head, his expression one of amused curiosity. "Is that really the best you can do? An ultimatum wrapped in false hope?" He chuckled darkly. "I've already died once, Arris. Do you really think I'm afraid of death?"
Arris gritted his teeth. "Fire."
