*Kryzen*
The time had finally come. We had all gathered to take the fight to Tian and his shadows. With all of us in one place ready for battle, I would have expected rallying cries and motivational speeches. But what met me was a calm before the storm.
The stillness was unnerving, a silent symphony that rang in my ears. I had seen it before—the pause as if the very air held its breath, bracing for the chaos to come. Soldiers around me sat clutching their weapons, eyes closed or staring into nothingness. I could almost hear their silent prayers and goodbyes, each one a private vigil.
"Kryzen?" Briella's voice cut through the quiet like a gentle blade.
I turned toward her, forcing a smile. "Yes?"
"Are you… praying?" Her bright green eyes searched mine, a mix of amusement and concern within their depths.
"Something like that," I said, my gaze drifting over the warriors again. "It's strange, isn't it, this calm?"
