The laughter that had filled the courtyard died in an instant.
It was as if an invisible hand had pressed down over the entire gathering, forcing every mouth shut and every breath to freeze inside trembling chests.
The night air felt heavier than before, thick with disbelief and something dangerously close to fear.
For a long moment, no one spoke.
Then Elder Fang's face twisted.
His lips pulled back slightly, revealing sharp white teeth. The veins near his temples stood out, and the last traces of mockery in his expression burned away, replaced by open fury.
"Are you serious?" he demanded, his voice low at first, but shaking with rising anger. "Boy, you still have a chance to admit your mistake. Kneel now. Apologize. Say that you were reckless with your words."
His eyes glowed faintly crimson.
"You can still admit that you spoke out of ignorance."
Cain tilted his head slightly, as if genuinely considering the offer.
Then he let out a soft laugh.
"Heh."
