The weight of the future, with all its looming threats and political machinations, settled between them for a moment, a stark contrast to the tranquil lake and the fading sunset. But it was a weight they now shared.
"They will try to use those close to you," Khione stated, her voice quiet but analytical. Her ice-blue eyes were fixed on the still water, but her mind was mapping out strategies.
"Lux, Adam… me. They will see your friendships as levers to pull."
Nero's arm tightened around her. "I know. That's why my first move is to ensure those levers are made of unbreakable material. We trust each other. That's our first countermeasure. The second is my own strength. I'm not the boy they could easily push around anymore."
"My father will offer you the full protection of the Undine family," she continued, finally looking at him. "It will be a generous offer, but it will come with chains. He will want to bind you to us, legally and permanently."
