Cliff did not respond immediately. He leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees, fingers interlaced in a posture of deep thought.
Who could accompany him into this viper's nest? Who was strong enough to stand up to the Serpents without being reckless enough to trigger disaster?
Yadha and Juggernaut were still en route—too early to count on them. Akumu and Kido were incapacitated. Alpha and Violetta were managing the front lines.
That left only…
His gaze hardened.
[Dahlia. I'll take her with me.]
Cain did not seem surprised.
[That's a good choice. But you know they'll put her to the test, right?]
A faint smile touched Cliff's lips.
[Then they'll understand why I chose her.]
Cain let out a brief, approving grunt.
[Very well. I'll send a message ahead. Prepare yourself, Cliff. The Serpent doesn't summon people without reason.]