Arthur, Felix, Veydran, Hades, and the others emerged from the Sect, expressions tense.
Neo waved his hand.
"Go back and rest. I'll be back by evening."
Then he looked at Apollyon.
"Let's go somewhere else. If we fight here, the Sect will be caught in the aftermath. I don't think either of us wants unnecessary deaths."
"Okay."
Elizabeth and Vivi did not move.
Neo glanced at them.
"Let him be. Those swords won't stop him if he really wants to fight here."
They hesitated, then withdrew their blades.
Apollyon turned and began walking toward the forest.
Neo followed.
Only a few steps and a hand grabbed his.
Neo turned.
It was Moraine.
"I'm coming with you," she said.
"No."
"But—"
"Moraine," Neo said softly.
He raised his other hand and gently cupped her face.
"There's no need to be nervous. I will win."
Before she could react, he lightly squished her cheeks, as if they were standing in the courtyard on an ordinary day.
