Becoming stronger

Alisha's narrowed eyes bored into Jack's, her suspicion palpable as she evaluated his demeanor. Yet, no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't detect a shred of malice. In fact, in this moment, he seemed…normal. More grounded than he had been in their prior encounters. But the weight of his words made it impossible for her to lower her guard completely.

"So, you want to take control of the planes this time?" she asked, her tone laced with incredulity. "Do you honestly believe the overlords will let you?"

Her skepticism wasn't unfounded. The planes were a fiercely contested realm—not one kingdom, not one army, had managed to dominate even a single plane, let alone the twelve that stretched across existence. The very idea was absurd. And yet, here Jack was, calmly suggesting the impossible.