Chapter 207 - Names
Malachi didn’t even so much as glance at Scarlett as the woman approached, her demons slowing to trail a few meters behind. Scarlett moved to stand in front of Rosa, but the bard stopped her with a raised arm, shooting her a meaningful look.
Frowning, Scarlett stepped aside, carefully observing Malachi while also keeping an eye on the larger demon that was slowly emerging from the rift at the center of the square.
Rosa greeted Malachi with a smile that could have put any seasoned salesman to shame. “Judging by that expression of yours, I’m guessing that you’re not happ—”
Malachi’s hand shot out, gripping Rosa’s throat. Her gleaming green eyes pierced the woman. “Return us to the citadel.”
Malachi’s demons growled as Scarlett began to move, but Rosa motioned for her to stay back, even as Malachi’s nails dug into the bard’s skin.
Rosa held Malachi’s intense gaze. “Believe me, I would if I could, genuinely. Unfortunately, I think the ship’s already sailed on that front.”
A small grunt of pain escaped her as Malachi’s grip tightened and blood trickled from her neck.
Scarlett stepped closer to the two. “Malachi.”
The woman turned her head slowly, locking eyes with her.
“Release her,” Scarlett warned.
Malachi remained silent for a few moments. “…This… Was this part of your schemes? You intended to work with the Vile from the start, and you used this girl as your pawn.”
“If that were the case, I would not have aided you against Anguish’s archdemons. The current situation is as unfavorable for me as it is for you, Malachi. It will not be improved by hostility between us.”