The shadows crawled up Kael's arms—slow and steady—like a snake testing its grip.
"I'll ask you one more time. Who are you?"
They slithered over the man's body, inch by inch, tightening as they climbed, slowly covering him in darkness.
His eyes widened.
Then panic kicked in.
He was scared. His eyes darted around the room, like he was waiting for something. His hands gripped Kael's, trying to loosen the hold.
But it was no use.
He opened his mouth—
But Kael's grip tightened.
All that came out was a dry, wheezing cough.
"Let him go! Let him go!"
Out of nowhere, a student stumbled through the door—eyes shut, feet dragging like a corpse across the floor.
They were mumbling under their breath, repeating the same phrase—like they were trapped in a dream they couldn't wake from.
More students followed.
Kael glanced at them.
Then back to the man.
His eyes flared red.
"What did you do?" he muttered. His voice was low. Flat. Dangerous.
The man flinched.
