His hand tightened as his fingers pressed against the guy's vulnerable throat.
One squeeze.
Just one.
Then...
A sound; soft and clear.
A melody drifted through the eatery, cutting through chaos like moonlight through smoke. Like gentle strings; a voice woven with warmth and authority, each note carrying calm, pressing down on rage without force.
Bahamut froze. His grip loosened.
The red in his vision receded, dragged back by the song like a tide obeying the moon.
His breathing stuttered as the boy collapsed to the floor, gasping.
Everyone turned.
At the entrance stood Apollonia.
She walked forward calmly, her presence commanding silence without a word. Her song faded as she raised a hand, eyes settling on Bahamut; It was neither accusing, nor angry.
Just… understanding.
"That's enough," she said gently.
Bahamut swayed.
Sel was there instantly, catching him before he fell.
The eatery was silent now. Eight boys lay broken on the floor. Tables ruined. Food wasted.
