Before Sono could even formulate a verbal retort, Max turned on his heel and strode out of the lecture hall. The move was a calculated gamble, a tactical withdrawal designed to force the senior's hand. Max knew that if he remained in the classroom, Sono might be tempted to decline the invitation and simply continue the public spectacle of violence, using the presence of the cowering freshmen as fuel for his ego.
By exiting, Max shifted the dynamic. He transformed himself from a stationary target into a fleeing taunt. To a man like Sono, who prided himself on his dominance and his ability to hunt, there was only one possible response. A predator cannot ignore a challenge that walks away with its head held high.
"I'll kill him!" Sono roared, his face contorting with a sudden, violent rage. He moved to rush forward, his heavy boots thudding against the floor, but he was momentarily checked by a hand on his shoulder. Sylan had reached out, his expression a mask of conflict.
