"Ryan Pierce," the figure's voice cut through the air, hoarse and soul-shaking, like the rumble of distant thunder. It was the kind of voice that commanded attention, that reached into your chest and tightened around your heart. Ryan felt like a child standing before a menacing principal, the kind you never wanted to cross.
He nodded, the gesture almost automatic, driven by an instinct to obey.
"You're impressive," the figure stated, the words carrying a weight that made Ryan's stomach tighten. Then, just as abruptly, the figure shifted his attention to Zoe, dismissing Ryan with a mere glance.
"Um, thanks," Ryan managed to reply, though his voice was small and wry, the usual confidence in his tone wavering. The blade he had held at Zoe's neck disintegrated into thin air as he cut off the flow of mana. It was a hasty retreat, spurred by the overwhelming presence of the shadow leader.
