The telepathic link went silent for a moment. Rynne didn't reply right away.
When she finally spoke, her voice was softer. "You're right. I can't get it without you. But what if I told you I don't need to keep it?"
Michael raised an eyebrow slightly, though he kept his eyes on the list. "Meaning?"
"Meaning I only need to borrow it."
That caught his attention, though his tone stayed even. "Borrow it?"
"Yes," Rynne said. "Just for a short time. I have something to accomplish with it. Afterward, you can have it back. Intact."
Michael almost laughed. "You think I'd hand over a three-star artifact on trust alone?"
"I'd return it," Rynne replied smoothly. "You have my word."
"Your word doesn't exactly have any existing reputation in my experience," Michael said dryly.
There was a pause, and then a faint exhale from her end of the link.
"You don't have to trust me. We can make a formal agreement. A mana oath."
