The square erupted again.
Not into chaos—but into motion.
Steel rang as formations re-formed, Divine Guards snapping back into discipline despite the shock. Holy sigils flared brighter now, no longer hesitant, their eyes hardening as they recognized a real threat standing before them.
And this time—
They didn't advance alone.
Luca stepped forward, sabers crossing in front of him, stance lowering as mana rolled tight and controlled through his body. Kyle cracked his neck beside him, spear spinning once before planting firmly into the stone. Aurelia's flames burned hotter, tighter, no longer explosive but razor-focused. Aiden raised his golden blade, light gathering around its edge. Sylthara vanished into motion, daggers whispering as her body blurred low and fast. Selena hovered above on the Ice Phoenix, frost spiraling defensively around them.
And Vincent—
Vincent moved like inevitability.
The moment the guards surged, he stepped in.
