Max's smile didn't waver as he took a step forward, his voice calm and strangely persuasive despite the tension suffocating the air. He spoke as though he were discussing terms at a marketplace rather than negotiating with an immortal calamity.
"It's simple, really," Max began, his tone almost friendly. "We will unseal the remaining parts of your soul. All of them. We will return every piece to you without contest. And if we manage to locate your crown—your true source of authority—we will hand it over as well."
The leaders stiffened. Even Lucien's eyes narrowed slightly. They knew it had to be done but they also had to do their parts. They had to look nervous and scared here.
Max continued without hesitation.
"All of that," he said, gesturing lightly with one hand, "given back to you, freely."
Mark's eyes sharpened. He said nothing, which was a rare thing for him. His attention was entirely fixed on Max now.
