The ogre's aura increased further in response; the reddish-black smoke thickening and expanding outward with greater force.
It was stirring a subtle but notable wind that rustled the hanging vines, fluttered delicate flower petals along the palace walls, and sent a faint chill sweeping through the otherwise warm and fragrant hall.
However, Benjamin didn't react much physically at all.
His posture remained relaxed and his expression was neutral and composed;
He simply held the handshake steady while the two opposing forces pressed against each other in silent contest.
The other women present: Titania, Isabelle, Vaelora, and the standing ogre bodyguard, they all immediately understood that something significant was unfolding between the two clasped hands.
Without a single word spoken among them, they fell completely silent and waited with their eyes fixed on the scene with tense anticipation.
