It was Woo Hyuk.
The same Woo Hyuk who had been inside the Ice Essence moments ago now stood before me, wide-eyed, gripping my fist.
But there was something different.
His long black hair had turned white.
His eyes glowed with a piercing blue light.
The moment I saw him, I understood the situation.
"You bastard..."
This wasnât Woo Hyuk.
It was the Third Pureblood, Mang, controlling his body.
Mang grinned when he saw my startled expression.
"That expression suits you well."
Though it was Woo Hyukâs face, the smile was entirely different.
"If only just a little more..."
His voice was filled with regret.
"...just a little longer, and I could have fully reclaimed everything."
His tone grew sharper as he spoke.
"To think you would intervene in that fleeting moment."
The grip on my hand tightened.
"Well, this will have to do. Itâs sufficient for now. I had intended to show mercy to a kin I hadnât seen in ages, but..."
A sly smile crept across Mangâs face.
"This turn of events isnât bad either. Iâll deal with this distortion preemptively. Now, why donât we see how death feels through the body of your dear friendâ"
BAM!
"Gah!"
My other fist connected with Mangâs face, snapping his head to the side.
Not missing a beat, I followed up with another punch.