Therys, slower, held his ground.
The petals around him wilted under the surge—
until the water-vines coiled around his limbs like serpents.
He didn't resist.
Not yet.
His eyes narrowed.
A breath.
A whisper.
"Return."
A soft glow—
The vines shattered into mist.
Ceyla, watching it all unfold, clenched her fists.
"They're… toying with them."
Khael tightened his grip around her.
"Just observe. For now."
His voice was low, but firm.
"We can't interfere. This is between the village and the rebels…"
(And I need to know the truth.)
(What's the real story behind this?)
(Why did they try to kidnap Lin?)
Li reappeared beside Ko—their movements in sync, like war-trained dancers.
Ko gave a slight nod.
"Separate. Target priority: Raiquen and Kirell. Others—immobilize only."
Li vanished again petals spiraling where he once stood.
Raiquen exhaled. Slow. Controlled.
"Tch… Still moving like an expert, huh?"
Ko appeared behind him.
