"This whole mission is nonsense. It's rigged. It was designed for their amusement. You're supposed to lose, no matter what you do. Sacrifice the one you love to save humanity or sacrifice humanity to save the one you love. But find this Dark Archangel's blood, and you can use it to save the world. And to save Blanca from the cruel fate the gods have prepared for her. Unless you are afraid," Ulrich challenged Dimitri with savage reality.
However, Dimitri met the prince's stare. Respect shone in his eyes. Respect and understanding. Dimitri understood what had happened to Ulrich; how the gods had pushed him away, and how Ulrich's need to protect him by giving him demon magic had governed his actions for many years.
"You know, I'm not scared, my lord, but thank you." Dimitri extended his hand.
Ulrich shook it. But when he tried to step back, Dimitri's grip tightened, holding him there.
