[ something in the energy between them has shifted.

it isn't necessarily physical - but it has manifested in a tangible way as the ground fractures, cracks, ripples-- and Abel, albeit surprised, does not plan to find out what the boy has in store. (this-- what is this...? back in the cave, he had never utilized these kinds of skills, this pressure, had he? no--)

Abel knows it won't be pleasant, but he cannot hesitate nor account much for Dokja's comfort; he is drawing the man up into his arms in one fluid motion, leaping backward to put distance between him and the boy's approach. even as his boots skid to a halt upon the shrine ground closer to the entryway, his eyes are fixated on his would-be "enemy." --stop... stop this; Gen has to stop this. ]

--I know the look in your eyes. I know that a man who's too far gone doesn't tremble when he has blood on his hands, and... I know you aren't a monster, even if you think it might be easier to make yourself one. And maybe it would be, but... you of all people should understand that nothing comes easy. Isn't that right?!