Astraea, Condoriano, and Saber returned to Lootwell late that night.
Lucien knew they had succeeded before they even entered the room.
Because they were laughing.
This was the laughter of ancient beasts who had done something highly questionable, enjoyed it far too much, and were fully prepared to call it strategy if anyone complained.
Astraea entered first, graceful as ever. Her expression was bright with satisfaction.
Condoriano followed beside her, still chuckling to himself.
Saber came last, arms crossed, looking both pleased and deeply irritated.
Each of them held an Origin Core fragment.
Lucien stared at the three fragments.
Then at the three ancient beasts.
"You succeeded."
Astraea smiled.
"Beautifully."
Condoriano placed his fragment on the table with theatrical elegance.
"Flawlessly."
Saber snorted and placed his own fragment down.
"That is a lie."
Lucien's brow rose.
Condoriano looked offended.
"It was flawless in outcome."
