Brook shivered, despite the lingering heat. "And it's a symbol of our failure," he finished, his voice barely above a whisper. The weight of their responsibility, the knowledge that they had been unable to protect the land, pressed down on them, heavier than any physical blow. The crystal mountain stood as a stark reminder of the Zealots' power, and the devastating consequences of their unwavering fanaticism.
The change in strength after the Zealot leaders received the blessing of the counterparts, made them feel like they were facing their grandfather who just ascended.
Everyone was at the fifth stage but the difference in strength makes one question if they were in the same stage of strength.
