The Scarlet King and the Crimson Exarch rose unsteadily, barely standing on the third step of the pyramid that led toward the Eternity Gate.
The Masters Chaos and Order were exhausted.
There was no strength left in their bodies, no reserves of power to draw from. Every breath burned, every movement screamed in protest. And yet, as the figure of the Ancient One slowly approached them, their wavering resolve hardened, their willpower erasing doubt and hesitation.
The Ancient One's smile widened as he glanced at the two of them, savoring the moment before their spirits could finally break. Destroying their hopes would feel better than killing them.
"Option one," he said calmly. "Lower your heads, kneel, and obey my rules."
He raised a single finger.
"Option two, I crush you into pieces, and make sure you cease to exist."
Surrender or death.
Those were the only choices the Ancient One offered.
For a moment, silence reigned.
