"Oh? You think the gods see you as anything that worth risking their wellbeing to help? How naive," Albert said with disdain.
"Listen to me, gods don't see mortals as human beings. They see us as resources to exploit, mere tools of convenience. If the tool is worthwhile, or if you're a god's favorite toy, then maybe they'll save you. Otherwise, don't count on their loyalty—especially not the Greek gods," Albert continued, pulling the patriarch up and forcing him to sit on a large piece of debris nearby.
He then dragged a wooden box over, placing it in front of the patriarch before laying a soul-binding contract on top.
"Read and sign, or else your entire family will have the chance to meet your god," Albert said, gesturing toward the main building that was engulfed in flames.
"What… what did you do!?" the patriarch asked, his voice trembling as he looked at Albert.
"Nothing much, just using hostages," Albert answered nonchalantly.
