Everyone held their breath. Even the wind refused to blow.
Riley stood tall, his gaze sweeping over the countless cultivators before him.
Expecting panic. Hesitation. Even a few cowards turning away.
But no one moved.
Not a single soul.
From the bold patriarchs to the trembling young disciples, from elders with withered bones to children hiding behind their mothers' robes—all remained kneeling. No one left.
Riley's lips curled into a slight smile.
"As expected."
There was no arrogance in his tone—only certainty.
He had offered a path, and they had chosen to follow. Now the heavens would bear witness.
"So be it," he said at last, raising his hand.
The sky responded instantly.
With a single, effortless wave, golden light erupted across the heavens.
Runes and celestial formations burst into existence, spinning in intricate patterns above his head.
Space trembled. Time slowed. The very laws of the mortal realm bent beneath Riley's will.
