"The Cosmic Elder is your friend, huh?" Hedrick arched his eyebrows slightly, a flicker of intrigue crossing his expression. "That's… unexpectedly impressive."
Robin, unfazed, gave a small, indifferent wave as if brushing off the significance of such a connection. He didn't seem eager to dwell on the subject, nor did he show the pride others might have felt in his place. After a short pause, he took a few measured steps forward, then came to a halt and slowly turned to face Hedrick. His eyes had sharpened.
"I have a question," he said, voice low but firm.
"Go ahead," Hedrick nodded with calm composure, as if preparing himself for a difficult inquiry. He offered Robin the space and silence needed to gather his thoughts.
"My war against your sister... against the so-called Empire of the Great Serpent," Robin began, his tone hardening with each word, "Was it you pulling the strings from behind the curtain?"
