"You all have an hour to prepare."
The old man finished speaking, then turned and walked away. His robe billowed as he disappeared into the palace halls.
The crowd stirred. Some began forming groups. Others pulled out supplies, checking their weapons, adjusting their armor. Everyone knew what was coming.
Max, however, had something else on his mind.
He turned to Klaus. "I want to be Max again."
His voice was calm, but there was weight behind those words.
Klaus's expression hardened. "Are you sure?"
Max understood his concern. Staying hidden had its advantages.
But he was done hiding.
He met Klaus's gaze. "Yes."
A moment of silence. Then Klaus sighed. "Alright."
His voice was firm, but there was a trace of warning. "But be careful."
Max nodded.
With one smooth motion, he removed his featureless mask.
The black robe followed.
And just like that—
Max was back.
The instant Max removed his mask, the atmosphere froze.
A wave of silence spread through the crowd.
