Abel headed toward the ruins to wipe out a swarm of monsters. By his side were three subordinates who had always accompanied him on these subjugations.

As the subjugation was nearing its end, one of the subordinates launched a surprise attack, plunging a mid-length sword into Abel's heart. The other two subordinates showed no sign of surprise even as they watched Abel get stabbed.

Abel stumbled until his back hit the debris of the ruins, and he slid down to the ground. The blade remained lodged in his heart. Had they pulled it out, blood would have gushed out, and he would have died instantly. But they did not pull the sword. Abel couldn't tell if it was a final mercy born of the guilt of betrayal, or if it was intended to prolong his agony.

The traitor, Karen, let go of the hilt and bowed his head.

Forgive us, Your Highness. We had no choice.

With those words, he turned away. The rest of the subordinates sheathed their weapons and followed. No one stopped to help Abel.

The dust settled in the ruins. Abel was left all alone amidst the remains of monsters and pools of blood. Thanks to the blade still lodged in his heart, a faint breath of life remained.