ONE

"We name you Honored ONE." the Councilor said. "Our strongest and most powerful magician. Serve your kind well."

"Thank you, Councilor," Cahti said with a satisfied smirk. "What is it you desire?"

"A small task. A thousand lives. We trust you."

... thousands of years later

"I'm almost done," Aeshen whispered. "Nine hundred ninety-nine battles won. This is your last round, Cahti."

ONE shuddered as Aeshen's blade pierced her throat’s skin. Cahti felt herself slipping away, to death once more. Her enemy’s whisper lingered in her ears.

"You will not survive the decade."