"Countless allies! The Black Throne had countless allies!" Salanoth said via air magic, and her host was allowed to regenerate. "And they all died of natural death or in battle. All of them!"
"The trinket is right." The Black Throne said. "There is an enormous difference between an alliance, no matter how unwilling, and coercion, no matter how rewarding. I want you to fight for us.
"If you fight for me, you won't hesitate to betray me the moment things go south."
"That's weird." Jorl said. "A while ago, Orpal used similar words to explain why he and Night work together even though they despise each other."
"That means your enemy is not as stupid as you think." The voice replied. "You need my help more than you think, little finch."
"Fine." Jorl sighed and took a step forward.
The pressure in the room disappeared, allowing him to reach the Black Throne with ease.
