“Alright, leave us alone now,” *Tobias calmly commands, with a dismissive wave of his hands. The crowd departs, bowing obediently. Alone with the captive, Tobias circles them, his gaze intense. He bends down, scrutinizing their face, a flicker of unexpected emotion crossing his features before he quickly masks it. He grasps their chin, then speaks, his voice laced with a deadly calm, “So, explain yourself.” He adds, “I am responsible for cleansing your guilt and sins. With blood and tears, if necessary.” His gaze lingers, betraying the conflict within him. He straightens, forcing a cold, determined expression.