Brian opened his eyes to meet the expectant gazes of Stagnant Water and Elizabeth. The lingering heaviness from the vision still clung to him like a suffocating fog.
[So? How is it? The slaughter of those innocent villagers? Or Prinian? Or the trap against you that finally woke you up? Which one stings the most?] SWORD teased, its voice echoing in Brian's mind like a cruel whisper.
"Why?" Brian asked, his voice low, trembling as he struggled to contain the anger and sorrow bubbling within him.
"It was a necessary evil. I would do it again—and again—as long as it serves the empire's best interests," Commander Joshua replied, unapologetic and void of guilt.
"Greater good?" Brian's voice cracked, then rose. "The blood of a child is on your hands because of some necessary evil? Are you joking right now?" His hands clenched tightly into fists. The man he once trusted, respected—even admired—stood before him without remorse, and the weight of betrayal felt unbearable.
