Blood trailed behind Seraphina, staining the marble floor with every unsteady step she took. The crimson streak of her blood glistened faintly in the dim light, like a path carved by her dying strength. Her breaths came out in shallow gasps, her body trembling as the smoke began to fade.
Gwen noticed the trail of blood, and a cruel smile tugged at her lips.
"Oh, Seraphina," she whispered, her voice filled with mock pity. "You've always been the Queen's little favourite, haven't you?"
Seraphina's body tensed, her back pressed against the cold wall as she tried to steady her breathing.
"Ever since the day she saved you, she's treated you like her precious gem." Gwen stepped closer, the tip of her blade scraping lightly against the wall as she walked. "While the rest of us trained, fought, and bled for her approval, you simply existed, and she adored you."
