The first thing Hermes noticed was the smile.
Raphael didn't flinch under the accusation, didn't fold his arms in defense, didn't bristle. He only sat straighter, posture immaculate, and smiled as if this was all exactly as planned.
"I really do want to work with you, Hermes," Raphael said, tone as smooth as glass.
"I told you already. I don't believe in overreach. The Thirteen Stripes must stay in their lanes. They were meant to protect balance, not seize control. That is why I need someone outside of it. Someone… less compromised."
The words fell neatly, each like a chess piece placed exactly where it belonged.
Hermes narrowed his eyes. "You expect me to believe that?"
"I expect you to think," Raphael replied. "And once you think it through, you'll see the logic. If I tried this with anyone inside the Stripes, suspicion would devour us both. But with you…"
He tilted his head, that smile deepening. "Well, you're the last person they'd expect me to confide in."
