Phoebe's sharp rejection still echoed through the room, but Kael didn't flinch.
His usual fake smile faded, slipping away like a mask no longer needed.
His red eyes, cold and clear, locked onto hers.
"So you don't even want to hear my question?"
Phoebe didn't hesitate her glare could've shattered steel.
> "You high-rankers are all the same. You think just because you're powerful, the world owes you something. You extort people, demand their help, and toss them aside like broken wands."
Kael's jaw tightened.
"I'm not like that."
She stood up, shorter than him but holding her ground with unshakable fury. Her tail flicked once behind her, her brown eyes narrowed.
"Don't lie to me," she hissed. "One of you noble bastards is the reason my mom died. You all hide behind your power and your names while people like us pay the price. I don't care how charming you try to sound I'm not falling for your bullshit."
For a moment, silence settled between them, heavy with old scars and bitter truths.
Kael didn't speak.
He simply smiled a dry, amused smirk and turned away, walking with slow, even steps toward the door.
"Well then," he said over his shoulder, voice casual. "Guess I'll just give my Arcane Class Crystal to someone else."
He didn't look back.
Didn't need to.
Rip.
A small hand gripped the back of his coat.
Kael paused, glancing slightly over his shoulder.
"Wait… what?" Phoebe's voice was suddenly very different.
He turned, and there she was, still holding his coat but now smiling. Warmly. Sweetly. As if the past ten seconds hadn't happened at all.
> "Did you say… Arcane Class Crystal?" she asked, tail flicking with sudden interest.
Kael smirked inwardly.
Knew that would work.