As Adrian watched the growing pile of treasures at Ava's feet, he felt a faint, nagging pull deep within him.
It was small at first, barely noticeable, but the longer he stood there, the more it grew. The hunger. It whispered at the edges of his mind, telling him to take, to accumulate more. Power. Wealth. Influence.
They were within reach—he could have it all.
He clenched his fists, trying to suppress the urge. Was it Ava's doing, or was it simply the consequence of the deal he'd struck?
"Adrian," Medea's voice cut through his thoughts like a blade. She stepped up beside him, her sharp gaze taking in the scene before them. "This is getting out of hand." Her voice was low, filled with disapproval as she watched the villagers continue to offer up their treasures.
"Should we stop this?" Lilith chimed in, her tone more amused than concerned. "It's almost entertaining how easily they give in to her."
