Bhrytee
"Just a little further!" Cassandra panted, glancing back over her shoulder. The sounds of pursuit were fading, but she knew it wouldn't be long before the soldiers regrouped. "We have to keep moving!"
Abel's pace faltered, and he pulled her to a halt, his expression suddenly serious as shadows flickered across his features. Cassandra breath hitched in her throat, a sense of foreboding creeping in. "What are you doing?" she asked, her heart thudding against her ribs.
"I can't take you with me," Abel said, his voice low and firm. "I have to go on alone."
Her heart sank. "What? Abel, you can't be serious! We are stronger together. We've made it this far, haven't we?" Panic stitched through her chest as she searched his eyes.
He took a deep breath, his expression resolute. "You don't understand. The unknown kingdom the one I told you about is real. If I can reach it and unite the scattered allies, we can restore peace. But it's a dangerous journey, one I can't risk with you by my side."
"Stop! Don't you dare say that!" Cassandra exclaimed, frustration bubbling over. "You don't have to do this alone! You can't just leave me behind!"
"I have to! For us, Cassandra!" Abel stepped closer, cupping her face in his hands. "If I don't do this, nothing will ever change. The king's soldiers will continue to crush any hope for freedom, and we'll be hunted down forever. I'll return, I promise!"
Tears filled her eyes, and she shook her head, feeling the weight of his words like a blade.