Chapter 119: Revelations
"Start talking."
Riku took a deep breath, trying to regain some semblance of composure. "High Archon," he began.
"Call me Seraphina,"
"Well, Seraphina, my name is Riku. I am not your enemy. The Crimson Creep, the conspiracy in this city... it is far worse than you imagine. I came to you because I need your help to uncover a major conspiracy."
"How can I believe you? For all I have seen, you are a spy and a leacher that peeks on others." Seraphina harrumphed, still unresolved on the previous matter.
"I am not your enemy," Riku repeated, his voice steady despite the High Archon’s icy glare. "I want to help the people. In fact, I am the one who created the healing talismans that have been circulating in Luxia."
Seraphina let out a sharp, humorless laugh. "You? The creator? A commoner claims to have crafted an artifact that baffles our finest mages? Do you take me for a fool?"
Riku sighed. Words were clearly useless. "Then let me show you."
He reached into his satchel and pulled out one of the gleaming copper talismans, its runes glowing with a soft, steady warmth. Seraphina’s eyes narrowed in recognition.