He lifted his hand, slow and steady, making sure Pride didn't crush them, his gaze locking onto the student who had their blade plunged into him, cold and heavy, like a god about to pass judgment.
"You think it's smart to bare your fangs at a god?"
He paused, his voice quiet—low enough to make the air feel heavy.
"Especially when that god decides where you'll end up after death."
His gaze darkened, glowing with quiet contempt.
"Now back off, you weakling."
The students staggered back but didn't retreat. Instead, they surrounded him, weapons raised.
Damon and the other holy knights stepped in, trying to calm things down. No one listened. Caius and Liz moved to intervene, but they were shoved aside like they weren't even there.
"Fine." He smiled, wide and slow.
Their shadows slithered toward Kael like pets returning to their master.
The moment they touched his, everything stopped. The students froze, trapped, unable to move.
