The creature's hand remained extended for a moment, then lowered.
"Suspicious too. Good. That will serve you well." It clasped all four hands together again. "The first task is simple. I need you to recite something. Specific words in a specific order at a specific location within this chamber."
"What words?"
"Ah, that's where it gets interesting. The words aren't in any language you currently speak. They're older than the Empire, older than the Demon Wars, older than the Grigori's fall. But don't worry—I can give them to you."
Nero's eyes narrowed. "How?"
The creature took a step closer.
Nero tensed, his dagger coming up slightly.
"Relax," it said. "I'm not going to hurt you. I'm just going to... share. A small transfer of information, nothing more. It will feel strange, but it won't harm you. You have my word."
"Your word means nothing to me."
"True. But you don't have much choice, do you? Unless you know ancient Primordial Script, which I very much doubt."
