The Loss Of Lithia

Of course, it made sense. The goods they had transported were that important—so crucial that even a Paragon's mood could be so drastically lifted by their safe arrival.

Paragon Raizel's joy was genuine, making Northern genuinely curious about the nature of the goods themselves.

But beyond that curiosity, something gnawed at him—sharp and unrelenting, like the jagged edges of a rake scraping against his mind.

He studied the Paragon, watching as the man exchanged cheerful words with his subordinates. The air in the room turned cold. The golden lights flickered, dimming as Northern's expression darkened.

Then his voice cut through the moment like a blade.

"You seem really happy… and not the slightest bit concerned about the lives that were lost to bring that damn thing here."

The room fell silent.