In the quiet of his office, Markus leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing slightly as his thoughts circled. 'This elf girl… she seems close to the boy. If I can get close to her, then allying with him may be easier.' His gaze lingered on how Racheal still held Leon against her, steady and careful, with no trace of annoyance or discomfort. That kind of closeness wasn't born overnight. Only those with deep ties could carry another like that.
'And then there was her introduction. She had given her name, and his in the same breath. She is telling me something. That she stands with him. That they are tied together. It confirms what I already see.'
Markus leaned forward, voice smoothing with practiced ease. "I am sorry for how you may have been treated. But I hope you understand, it was a needed measure although excessive. Your friend is… a very important person."
