Chapter 1443: The Ruined World
"It takes everything I have just to keep these doors locked," Girsha sighed, his massive chest rising and falling with weariness. "And it’s getting harder. Some of the doors had already been forced open before I arrived... and sealing them again has pushed my strength to its very limits."
Zhao Li Xin knew which door he mentioned, "I heard about the Azure Dragon, named Evereth, and his connection to Lazarus," Zhao Li Xin said evenly.
Girsha fell silent for a long moment, his emerald eyes dim with thought. "You told Lory about this, didn’t you?"
"I did," Zhao Li Xin replied simply.
"What did she feel about it?" Girsha asked, his voice softer now.
"Not much... you know how she is," Zhao Li Xin answered, his tone carrying quiet concern. "But I think she’s conflicted. A part of her might pity the Black Dragon... but another part of her will never forgive what it did to her father and uncles."
Girsha exhaled a deep, heavy sigh. "Let me guess—she buried herself in her work, refusing to dwell on her feelings?"
A faint smile curved Zhao Li Xin’s lips. "Something like that... I don’t pry. Some memories hurt too much to touch. Sometimes... It’s better to leave them alone."
Girsha turned his head slightly, his sharp gaze settling on Zhao Li Xin. "Is that... based on experience?"
Zhao Li Xin lowered his gaze and said nothing.
Girsha’s voice rumbled gently, not unkindly. "You still can’t forgive yourself for hurting her, can you? Zhao Li Xin... you know it wasn’t your fault."
"It was still my hands," Zhao Li Xin murmured, regret lacing every word.