The Weight of Blood and Name
"Let's see who can save you today."
Vita Zain's words still echoed when Harry's jaw tightened.
His palms were slick with sweat.
His throat felt dry.
But he stepped half a pace forward anyway.
If I retreat now…
Everything before was meaningless.
Behind him, Selena's fingers subtly brushed the hilt of her sword. A thin frost gathered around her fingertips, almost invisible in daylight. Cold Mana stirred beneath her porcelain skin, quiet but lethal.
Rias's red silk shifted in the breeze. The gold sash at her waist fluttered faintly as if reacting to her heartbeat. A faint warmth radiated from her body—barely perceptible, like embers hidden beneath ash.
Akeno stood slightly behind, long purple hair cascading over her shoulders. Her expression remained calm, but her eyes had grown darker. Dangerous.
Rias did not refute Vita.
From beginning to end, she showed no fear. No anger. No panic.
