"No."
Atticus' answer had been immediate.
Zenon was taken aback, blinking once. He clearly hadn't expected that answer.
"Are you sure? We can still discuss—"
"I'm sure."
Without waiting, Atticus turned and left the hall, Anorah and the others walking close behind. As the seconds passed, a small frown slowly appeared on Zenon's face.
Then, suddenly, a booming force echoed in his mind.
"ZENON."
Zenon's eyes widened. He dropped to both knees instantly, his demeanor shifting into one of utter reverence and respect.
"L-Lord Solvath…" he said hurriedly. "What can this lowly one do for you…?"
"TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE, VESSEL. YOU MUST SEIZE THIS OPPORTUNITY AND ACQUIRE THE FRAGMENTS. FORCEFULLY OR OTHERWISE. TRUE LIBERATION CANNOT BE ACHIEVED IF PEOPLE ARE ALLOWED THE LUXURY OF CHOICE."
"Lord Solvath…" Zenon slowly clenched both fists, a complicated look crossing his face.
