The emperor's words made time freeze as if not even the tiniest speck of dust knew how to react. The change was so sudden, almost to a degree, that the crowd suspected being in a bad dream. However, the Light Emperor made sure to strike reality into their bones.
"All of you gathered here today to be the stepping stone for my family," said the Light Emperor, raising both hands. "No one will enter or leave this place… alive."
A bloodthirsty aura exploded from the emperor as all mana within the plaza suddenly disappeared. The people felt like the air was stripped out of them, and their bodies started shaking as strength left them.
Mana has existed in this world for centuries, and while not all people could use it, it worked to enhance life and stamina. It was the continuous stream of regenerative energy surrounding their bodies. Thus, everyone could feel the change.
