The silence that followed Alice's declaration wasn't empty. It was heavy. Alive. Laden with intention. For a brief moment, the entire labyrinth seemed to hold its breath, as if even the runes that supported that ancient structure recognized that something had changed. It wasn't just a fight between participants. This had transcended the scope of the tournament.
Alice remained motionless after saying she would kill him.
Not as an empty threat.
But as a logical conclusion.
On the other side, Shiva—still occupying Shura's body—watched her in absolute silence. His eyes, which had previously held analysis and curiosity, were now different. Deeper. More alive. And then… a smile appeared.
It wasn't a polite smile.
It wasn't a light smile.
It was broad. True. Dangerous.
And, above all… excited.
"…Interesting."
