Charles and Linda stared blankly at the scarred girl on the bed, neither expecting her to say such a thing.
But after looking at the girl's battered body, Charles shook his head. "No. You can retire. You've fulfilled your duty."
Grace struggled to sit up. At a mere thought from Charles, a transparent tentacle materialized behind her, propping her up.
"If I step down, who will take my post?"
"That's not your concern. Besides, I have things I need to take care of," Charles said calmly.
He had to deal with both the Pope and Anna, once and for all.
Grace shook her head stubbornly. "No! If you go, you'll die!"
Linda grew anxious, afraid Charles would agree. She took a step forward. "And what about you? Won't you die?"
"But—!"
Charles cut her off with a sharp wave of his hand, his tone severe. "Enough! No more 'buts.' You're no use to me now. Get out!"
