Damian stood perfectly still throughout the entire declaration, his expression unchanged, his posture relaxed despite the weight pressing down around him.
The Hooded One's shrouded form shifted, that void-like darkness seeming to bore into him.
"Tell me, foolish mortal."
The question came out sharp and demanding.
"After knowing everything, after hearing the truth that has been buried for countless eras..."
A pause loaded with challenge.
"Who is the villain in this story?"
The words hung between them like a blade.
"Whose side is the evil one? The being who slaughtered Godkings and split reality itself? Or those of us who fight to prevent him from finishing what he started?"
Another pause, heavier than before.
"The one who forced the universe to cripple itself just to survive? Or those who've dedicated our existence to making sure it never happens again?"
The Hooded One's hands spread wide.
