Riley stepped onto the wide, elevated stage, his boots echoing softly against the polished stone floor.
The instant he appeared, dozens of spiritual senses swept over him, piercing and invasive, brushing against every inch of his body as though trying to peel away his secrets.
Normally, such an act was seen as an open insult, a challenge meant to test one's strength or provoke a reaction.
Yet Riley didn't even flinch. His expression remained calm, his stride steady.
He could feel the probing energies lingering around him, but to him, they were nothing more than the playful tricks of arrogant youths—mere ripples trying to measure the depth of an ocean.
All around the stage, the gathered disciples whispered among themselves, curious eyes falling upon the newcomer.
Riley paid them no mind.
