That 'Thing'

'Crack'

The sudden sound seemed to freeze everyone in place as if time itself had paused. Velc's movements were robotic as he turned his head to witness the golden chains around Aether's neck..... noticing a small crack amidst their divine sheen, all while Aether's gaze remained fixed in their direction.

'ssshhhhh'

A subtle breeze lifted Aether's dark locks, unveiling his eyes, which were eerily devoid of emotion, staring intensely at Velc.

"Thud"

Velc dropped to his knees, his face pressed against the cold ground, his eyes vacant and lost. Meanwhile, Kai lay unconscious nearby, having succumbed to the strain after coughing up blood.

"What in the world..." The Empress couldn't contain her shock and muttered under her breath, not because of Velc or Kai but due to the..... unsettling presence behind Aether.

"ARRRHHHH!!!" Archpriestess's agonized scream pierced the air as she clutched her head in unbearable pain.