Time-Skip (1)

(Time-Stilled World, an unknown underground tunnel, Leo's POV)

As soon as Leo opened the Codex, a new text began appearing on its pages, glowing faintly under the beam of his flashlight.

> "You have now perceived the second glimmer."

> "Blood Red—born from the ancient instinct to dominate and destroy."

> "This is the hue of pure killing intent. Unfiltered. Undiluted. A force that exists beyond emotion, and is an intent so sharp it etches itself onto the world around you."

> "Unlike frustration, which clouds the aura inward, killing intent extends outward. It touches your surroundings. It leaves trails, scars, and pressure."

> "You saw this color not because you wished to kill… but because you meant it."

> "Recognize this difference. Track it. Study how it pulses when you're calm, how it sharpens when you're cornered, and how it fades when doubt seeps in."