I stand there, locked in shock and confusion as I stare at Luci Chrollos, Athlea's husband—the man who's always seemed so decent, a supportive partner to her, and someone who's kept his life separate from any whispers of corruption. Yet here he is, standing at the heart of an evil alliance, surrounded by those wielding the same malicious red symbol as if it were a badge of honor.
"Luci... why?" The question escapes me, half a whisper and half a shout, colored with disbelief. "Why are you here? Why are you doing this?"
He regards me with a look so casual, so unaffected, that it sends a chill down my spine. He meets my gaze, and there's a blankness in his eyes, as if he's long shed anything human.
"Is that supposed to mean something to me, Zero?" His tone is mocking, indifferent.
The anger within me flares up. "Athlea—" I begin, my voice rough. "What about Athlea, your wife? Do you realize what this betrayal would do to her?"
