The blood mist had barely settled when Alex turned his attention back to the safe zone. His newly elevated soul perception swept across the remaining participants like a tide. Most avoided his gaze. Some trembled visibly. Others simply stood frozen, uncertain whether to flee or stay.
Alex didn't blame them.
He had just slaughtered over three thousand candidates in the span of a few breaths. The snow beneath him had turned crimson. The air still carried the metallic scent of blood. And yet, he sat there as calmly as if he had merely swatted away insects.
"Jaros, Mira, everyone, follow me from now on," Alex said, his voice carrying the same casual tone one might use to invite friends for dinner.
Jaros exhaled slowly. The tension in his shoulders eased slightly, though his eyes remained cautious. He had seen Alex's power grow exponentially over the past day. What had once been a promising but reckless newcomer had transformed into something far more dangerous.
