Ending the Fight Against Kastoria (3)

"Now, try me again."

The air grew heavy with tension as I held my sword firmly against Rena's throat. The sharp edge of the blade gleamed under the sun light. Everyone around us froze in place, their eyes wide with shock and fear. Ryuuki, who had been glaring at me with murderous intent just moments before, was now rooted to the spot, his rage tempered by uncertainty.

"Release her..." The voice that broke the silence belonged to Ayaka. Her words were not a command, nor did they carry the weight of a threat. Instead, they were soft, almost pleading—a request rather than an order.

I turned my gaze toward her. Ayaka met my eyes, but her expression betrayed her inner turmoil. There was no calmness, no serenity in her features. She had realized the truth about me. It wasn't surprising, given that I had spoken directly to Akane, but I hadn't expected them to unravel my identity so quickly with just a single word.