"It doesn't have to be the hard way," the man says, his voice changing, dipping into something smoother. Something meant to sound persuasive, like he's still in control.
"Exactly my point," Ashen replies, cutting him off. His voice is calm, but every word is grounded, immovable. "It doesn't have to be the hard way. So just like you came, leave exactly like that. I have better things to do than run around with you. You crossed the border, and I know you know that!"
His tone darkens. "And I'm giving you a chance to leave in peace. Or you can also choose to cause chaos that will only bite you back. Your call."
His voice, though calm, hits with the weight of a hammer. There's no tremble. No doubt. It's heavier than his size should allow, dragging across the clearing like a thick storm.
His eyes flicker_ green, then red. A glow that pulses from something older, deeper, ancient in its foundation. The air around him stills.
