The cockatrice finally agreed, and Alex grinned, satisfied to have hooked it.
"Alright, then. Let's make a deal."
"Like I said, I'll hand over the orb, and you let me go free."
The cockatrice narrowed its eyes, studying him:
"Even if I help you escape, your chances of getting off this cliff are slim. You'll have other cockatrices on your trail—it's suicide, human. Just accept your fate and hand over the orb."
Alex smirked, unfazed:
"How about you stop flapping your beak and open the cell? I'll handle the rest."
The cockatrice clicked its sharp teeth in annoyance but then moved toward the gate's edge, pressing a claw against a small rune.
Alex heard a hum as the barrier that had shocked and deflected his blows flickered and vanished.
He grinned.
Now he could use his powers… but not yet.
The cockatrice strutted inside the cell, posture tense, eyes fixed on him, clearly expecting a double-cross:
