Everyone fell silent the moment Northern began to speak.
"If the student council wants to go to the Academy to save their school, let them. But they need to understand that staying alive is their responsibility alone. It would be quite a shame if, after going there to save your school, you're the one who needs saving. I won't lift a finger if anyone gets killed. Trust me, I've watched many die without flinching, and I've taken lives out of pure necessity. I'm not going to feel compelled to save anyone."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over them—cold and distant as winter stone.
"So I'll sound this warning one last time: do you have to go? My subordinates are on their way here. Things have cleared up, so it's safe. You can start finding your way home from here. If you choose death, however, be my guest."
Silence stretched between them. Some students behind the group took shameful steps backward, trying to blend into the crowd behind.
