For the first time since stepping into the Big World, Lucien felt truly helpless.
His drops were meaningless here. His weapons might as well have been ornaments. Even his authority was tolerated only because it amused beings far beyond him.
'So Vorren was right…' Lucien let out a silent breath. 'There was danger indeed. This was the foreshadowing.'
The darkness pressed closer.
Lucien lifted his head.
"Seniors," he said calmly. His voice cut through the suffocating domain. "I am willing to go with you."
The Verdant Veil members froze. Marie's eyes widened. Sahrin struggled. Khasari's fists trembled.
None of them could speak.
"But," Lucien continued with an unwavering gaze, "release my companions."
The shadows stilled.
The Varkhaal Eternal turned slowly. His form distorted as if reality itself recoiled from his attention.
"Do you believe," he asked softly, "that you possess the standing to propose an exchange?"
Lucien smiled. It was small. It was sharp.
