Ashrik silently gazed at Lucille. Even though her life might be in danger, it was clear that she wouldn't take any other refusal. She had made up her mind, as solid as steel.
He asked gravely, "Lucy, are you sure?"
She nodded. "Absolutely. Let me help you, Brother Ash."
A pang of ache struck Ashrik's heart at the sight of Lucille's resolute gaze. He clenched his hands, trying to battle the onslaught of terror that drove chaos in him.
The image of her lying in a pool of blood in the underground cave a few days ago returned to haunt him. He still remembered the raw desperation and anguish that had almost driven him mad when he assumed the worst.
Fortunately... She was safe.
She was safe and sound, now sitting before him—alive.
Ashrik loosened his fists; the whites of his knuckles receded. As he fought the sense of helplessness, he said, voice muted, "We'll find safer ways first. Then, even if there's nothing... I won't stop you."
