Aftermath

The ringing of the explosion dissolved into the surroundings, unveiling the devestating aftermath. The dust settled. Aiden, Ash, and Z stood, untouched by the explosion or flames. Z, with a nonchalant wave of his hand, cast magic to dispel the lingering dirt and debris that clung to his clothes. "Gross," he muttered with absolute disgust.

Mai's frustration peaked and she faced Z, her voiced laced with anger. "Did you know that was going to happen?"

Z met her gaze, his response direct. "I did warn you."

The response further infuriated Mai. "Warning someone at the last second isn't exactly helpful!"

Z was unapologetic, a glimpse into his twisted reasoning. "I never claimed it would be reasonable."

Mai's patience reached its limits. In a swift movement, she grabbed Z by the throat, her fingers tightening and digging into his neck. The other top rankers observed and said their prayers. Afterall what was she thinking picking a fight with Eden's #1?

A grin pulled at the corner of Z's mouth, his mocking tone cutting through the atmosphere like a hot knife through butter. "Are you trying something? Yknow I have a right to use force if I believe you're threatening me." He looks into Mai's eyes, fully planning to abuse the system to hurt Mai.