Helena, Deputy Commander Jia, Winter and the others remained oblivious of the three pairs of eyes, watching them from far above. Their conversation flowed steadily, though mostly led by the former.
Ashrik forced himself to remain utterly still, though a storm was warring wildly beneath his calm exterior. His hands curled slowly into fists, trembling with rage.
If he allowed himself even a moment of weakness, he would drop from this tree like a blade and slice through them without hesitation.
Because of them, Lucille had almost been sacrificed, like how Violet's life had ended years ago.
If he was one second late in finding her, she would have died, right beside his only sister's remains.
Ashrik's breath grew sharp for a heartbeat, his entire body brimming with cold fury.
'Not now.'
He repeated the words silently, trying to steady himself.
