All those descending pillars froze mid-strike, energy crackling but no longer moving.
Then they withdrew, pulling back into the clouds overhead.
'H-huh?'
The Sage's thoughts came confused, his mind struggling to process what was happening.
'What does that even–'
Before he could think further, the clouds' attention shifted.
That ancient presence turned away from him, finding Damian's still form across the ruined rooftop.
And the voice spoke again, carrying weight that pressed down on reality itself.
"Mortal."
The word hung in the cold air, demanding attention.
Damian's posture straightened automatically, his crimson eyes tracking upward to find the dispersing clouds.
"The last time we met, 'I' deemed you not worthy of walking that path."
The words fell like hammer blows, each one landing with finality.
"And even though you survived the tribulation, even though 'I' recognized you as a Chosen One of this era in accordance with the universal laws..."
