The square breathed again.
Not calmly—
But in fractured gasps.
The moment the bishop's command rang out, the frozen tension shattered. Murmurs surged through the crowd like a wave crashing against stone.
"Who is he…?"
"Why is the Saintess holding him—?"
"Did you see that armor—?"
"Is he… protecting her?"
"What are they talking about?"
Confusion spread faster than fear.
The square inhaled.
Then chaos surged back in.
Murmurs erupted as the Divine Guards finally moved, boots scraping hard against marble as discipline overcame hesitation.
"Seize him!"
The command rang out sharp and absolute.
Luca stood.
Slowly.
Carefully.
He helped the Saintess to her feet first, steadying her as her legs trembled. Only once she was standing did he turn.
His gaze lifted.
Steel flashed.
