94 His Lips

Cecilia’s POV

The flames around me burned everything to ashes, and the air seemed to stand still. Those who had died in agony were now mere blackened specks. In my sight, the red-haired sorcerer stood out vividly. He looked at me, his expression as grim as the scorched land.

“Yes, I need you, Ulysses.” I smiled at him despite his piercing gaze. Of course, I needed him. Everyone I brought here was dead. Besides the man in front of me, there was no one else I could trust.

But my admission didn’t seem to please Ulysses. His face darkened further, as if my response confused him, or perhaps even angered him.

“Cecilia, why didn’t you seek my help sooner? Do you always have to wait until you're cornered before asking for aid? Or does the noble princess think she can always escape danger without needing my assistance?”