Though momentarily dazed, Cliff's words did not shake Marlina.
She knew well that the visions she had witnessed were beyond this old man's comprehension.
Without Ansel's guidance, she would never have glimpsed the twisted truth of this world.
The empire, a fragile plaything in the empress's grasp, was an absurd society that should not exist. Yet without the empire's imposed order, mortals would suffer dominion and torment far crueler than class oppression.
Ansel harbored a desire to change all this but had no means to start; thus, it was her duty to aid him at all costs.
This old man, living in the lower district, lacked the perspective to see the grand and radiant vision. Hence, his resentment and anger towards her actions were understandable, but Marlina needed neither his understanding nor approval.
After a brief silence, Marlina softly said, "So, Mr. Cliff, you only wish to condemn me."
