The Mermaid Queen's Unexpected Offer

Lucien is really shocked that Nea knows about his hidden plans, or rather, that she hasn't done anything yet. He thought he understood all the reasons she was hostile towards him, but actually, he had no idea how patient and diplomatic she had been acting.

"Why?" He asks. "Why didn't you attack me when my guard was down? You had the strength and opportunity to kill my sisters and me..."

Nea sighs. "Do you think I could kill Claire? She is connected to Saria as Maya is connected to Naomi; our families share a bond that is very special to people like us."

Lucien makes a sorry expression as he stays alert and ready to summon his red katana and fight if needed. "You know I won't stop, right? I need the magic core that makes the Phoenix immortal to save the lives of my loved ones."