Unexpected Move

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The sudden change in Apollo's demeanor took Asteroth by surprise, causing him to freeze up as he stared at Apollo in disbelief. No matter how long his separation from the Monarch was, he'd never forget the disposition and tone of the Monarch. As a result, Asteroth lifted his trembling finger towards Apollo and spoke in a manner one wouldn't expect of him.

Unlike his usual headstrong and combative nature, Asteroth sounded meek as he continued to tremble. "Y-you… you abandoned us. So how can you be here? And through him? Do none of us matter as much as he does? If this was possible… couldn't you have done this in the past to appease all of our worries?"

Listening to Asteroth's words, Apollo was silent for a moment, which Asteroth took as an admission of guilt. At least, that was how he felt until Apollo took a step forward and placed his hand on Asteroth's shoulder.