Sebastian moved.
The moment stretched thin, fragile, as if the entire chamber balanced on that single decision. His step was not rushed or reckless, yet it carried a finality that changed the air itself. The distance between him and Dorian closed by inches, but the weight of it felt like a breaking point no one could reverse.
"DON'T!"
The command cut sharply through the tension, slicing across the room with authority that demanded obedience. It came from behind Sebastian, from the council figure whose presence had already shifted the power in the chamber. His voice did not rise, yet it carried enough force to halt even instinct.
Sebastian slowed, but he did not fully stop. The hesitation was brief, almost invisible, yet it was enough to stretch the moment instead of snapping it completely.
Dorian noticed.
And his grip tightened.
