Chapter 49: PROOF OF THE UNSEEN HUNT
She had felt killing intent before, from veteran warriors, from monsters, from the truly dangerous individuals who occasionally passed through guild halls. But this had been something qualitatively different. It hadn’t just been the promise of death; it had been the psychic weight of someone who had delivered death on an incomprehensible scale.
What are you really? she wondered, studying Yomi’s now-placid features with new eyes. And what brought something like you to our guild?
The questions multiplied in her mind as she watched him help the still-trembling Gareth to his feet with surprising gentleness. The contrast was jarring, moments ago, he had radiated malevolence that made her soul recoil, and now he showed concern for his defeated opponent.
Helena turned away from the observation window, her mind already calculating. Whatever this Dra’kesh truly was, he represented either an unprecedented opportunity or a catastrophic threat. Possibly both.
She needed to know more. Much more.
As she walked back toward her office, Helena’s steps quickened with purpose. There were contacts to reach, discrete inquiries to make, and preparations to consider. If her instincts were correct, the guild had just encountered something that would reshape her understanding of what was possible in this world.
First things first, she decided. I need to ensure he has every reason to stay cooperative.
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"Is... is he all right?" Lirien asked, her voice carrying genuine concern.
"He’s fine," Yomi replied, already moving toward the exit. "Though his pride might need time to heal."