The moment those words fell, the white-haired old man atop the black bull darkened visibly. Even the powerhouses standing behind James exchanged stunned glances.

None of them could understand it.

Allie—a pagan saint—had run rampant, injured Yegor, attempted to destroy the ancient god formation, and tried to abduct both the Light and Dark Heavenly Paths. She had crossed every possible line.

And yet, James still chose to protect her.

The tension in the air turned strange, almost suffocating.

At that moment, Xezal, who stood beside the black bull, turned and bowed deeply. “Master—”

“Silence.” The white-haired old man cut him off sharply.