Echoes in the Mainframe

The air became tense the moment I issued my ultimatum. The atmosphere thickened—almost electrifying, crackling with invisible sparks of unease.

But a few seconds later, the commander raised his hand and ordered everyone to "halt."

Though hesitant, the soldiers gradually lowered their weapons, the distrust in their eyes still sharp—like they were following orders purely out of obligation.

"Good, good."

I stepped forward, closing the distance between us, stopping just before the commander. I lightly tapped his cheeks a few times with a grin.

"At least you know what's best for you," I said. "Our main force is just one jump away, after all. One wrong move from you, and you'll be remembered as the man who doomed his entire race."

Of course, it was a half-bluff laced with truth.

The main force of the Shadowless Hawks truly was only a single jump away.