"That remote-controlled meat puppet trick worked with Meln because I created the opening and knew that his killer wouldn't have the opportunity to check the body." Jirni said.
"I have no confidence in controlling the field against the Gernoff to such a degree. Moreover, if their assassins manage to get close enough, a mere Sealed Space would make the puppet collapse and reveal the ruse.
"There is no trick this time, my love, because tricks don't work against overwhelming power. As for our pact, it still stands, and I wouldn't have it any other way."
"Then why do you need my promise?" Orion asked.
"Because I'm the Gernoff's target, not you." Jirni's expression and tone remained detached as though she were discussing politics. "Because you are much stronger than I am and can even use Blade Magic.
"Taking you down would require the sacrifice of many violet-cored Gernoff elders. It's simple math, my beloved. The benefit they would gain from killing you is not worth the cost.
