Chapter 138

• Edric inclined his head respectfully. “Yes, my lord. It is because of her that I stand here today.” His tone carried no weakness—it carried gratitude, but also the firm steadiness of a man who knew his worth.
• Ahyoka studied him quietly. His gaze was sharp, piercing, as though peeling away every layer of Edric’s soul. Then, with deliberate slowness, he asked:
• “Tell me, Edric… do you still see it? Do you still feel the presence of the orb that brought you here?”