We rush.
The Guardians follow.
I stop.
I turn back.
"Stop!" I shout.
The Guardians freeze.
I focus on the ring. It glows—dark and silent.
I seize the moment and rush toward the crowd. The glow fades.
Their eyes lose me.
The armor dissolves.
I return to normal.
The Guardians hesitate… then turn away.
I escape.
I walk through the streets.
Whispers surround me.
Everyone talks about the knight. Fear. Awe. Confusion.
Then I notice him.
A man in a long coat.
He walks too carefully. He hides something.
I follow.
He turns into a narrow street. Empty. Silent.
I move softly. I think he hasn't noticed me.
"Who are you?" he asks.
I stop.
"Why are you following me?" he continues.
I stay silent.
He turns. His eyes meet mine. Tears fill them. He steps closer.
The air feels heavy.
"Answer me," he says.
"I am Zeo Sol," I reply.
"What are you hiding?" I ask.
"It is a secret," he says.
"Tell me," I warn, "or I will kill you."
He stares at me.
"I feel something in you," he whispers.
His eyes drop to my hand.
The ring.
He freezes. Sweat runs down his face. Fear floods him.
"The ring… it is—" he tries to speak.