The beast did not look away.
Its pale blue eyes stayed locked on Raizen like there was no one else left in Ukai.
Hot air washed over the platform with every breath it took.
Beside him, Atman laughed softly, not being able to hold it back.
"How flattering."
Raizen didn't feel flattered.
He curled his fingers around his sword hilt, feeling the familiar grip under his palm.
Someone ran past behind them. An instructor, sleeve marked with some kind of rank, face drawn tight.
"Professor Atman!" he shouted. "Zone C is compromised, we are evacuating the north platforms. Command wants containment fields online."
Atman turned his head just enough to answer.
"I heard the bell" he replied, calm. "Go. Do what you must. I will take care of this one."
The instructor blinked at Raizen, then back at Atman.
"Alone?"
Atman smiled.
"I'm an instructor, after all, my friend. Trust me."
