The survivors felt their stomachs churn. Even without touching them, his presence pressed against their souls, suffocating and undeniable.
When he spoke, his voice was smooth, cultured, almost polite. Yet every syllable was laced with malice.
"Ah… survivors. Congratulations."
The words slithered into their ears, unsettlingly intimate, as though he were standing right behind each of them, whispering into their minds.
"You've endured the first trial. It's truly commendable!"
"Impressive, given how… messy it all was. Still, I must admit—" his smile widened slightly, revealing a sharp row of teeth that was perfectly organized, "—I did not expect the first and second wave to end so quickly."
At that, unease rippled through the gathered survivors. They all thought of the same person, though none dared to say her name aloud. Ling Yu's shadow still lingered in their minds, her figure burning into their memories as clearly as fire leaves scars on the flesh.
