Factice Trial

After retracting all of their auras, the Matriarchs sat there in silence, seemingly waiting for something.

That's when Rodney leaned in next to Astaroth's and Phoenix's ears.

"They are waiting for your response. This is a way to establish a social pecking order. Hit them with everything you can control in a brief burst."

Astaroth eyed him with weariness.

"I'm getting tired of these power plays. What if I don't want to play their games?"

Phoenix was the one to reply, her tone serious.

"Then I guess that makes us automatically lesser…"

Rodney only nodded at her words.

With an audible sigh, Astaroth turned back to the twelve seated women.

'Guess I'll give it my best shot then.'

Phoenix, next to him, was already amassing a part of her mana to release in a short but powerful burst. And when she did, the Matriarchs were visibly content with her action, before locking eyes with Astaroth.