The moment Adrian Evan Imperius was released from the prison realm, the entire hallway changed.
A massive surge of mana erupted from the Containment Ring. The air cracked under the sudden pressure, and the marble floor trembled beneath their feet. Darkness spilled outward from the ring like ink spreading through water, swallowing the golden light cast by the chandelier above. For a brief moment, the luxurious hotel hallway seemed to overlap with the endless void of the prison realm.
Then Adrian stepped out.
A suffocating aura instantly filled the hall.
The pressure was overwhelming. Amara's eyes widened as her breathing became difficult. It felt as though an invisible hand had wrapped itself around her throat, slowly tightening its grip. Her legs trembled, and she nearly collapsed onto the polished marble floor.
Her body reacted before her mind could understand what was happening.
This was fear.
Raw, instinctive fear.
The fear of a weak creature standing before a predator.
