The Lion King Is Here

Cassius drew a deep breath, his voice noticeably lower, every word carrying incredulous caution. "This... is an extremely serious claim, Inquisitor.

Lion El'Jonson disappeared ten thousand years ago. All official records indicate that he had long since fallen into slumber, or... perished. How do you intend to prove it?"

"We are not asking you to believe us immediately," Chen Xi said. "But I ask that you send Astropathic Communications in two directions. First, send a message to Baal, homeworld of the Blood Angels, to confirm my identity and status as Inquisitor Chen Xi.

Second, send a message to the Dark Angels Legion, or to any Astropath as close as possible to their area of operations. The message contains only four words: 'The Lion King is here.'"

Cassius exchanged a glance with the Chief Librarian.

The Chief Librarian gave a slight nod, indicating that he had detected no obvious aura of deception in Chen Xi's words. But for an event of such magnitude, words alone were not enough to earn trust.

"We will verify this according to procedure," Cassius finally said. "Until confirmation arrives from Baal, the three of you must remain in designated quarters under our protective watch. This is a necessary security measure."

"That is acceptable," Chen Xi agreed.

The Lion King remained silent, yet his mere presence was like a mountain, making the atmosphere throughout the hall feel grave.

The three were escorted into a fully furnished lounge that nonetheless clearly carried the air of surveillance.

Two Crimson Crescent warriors stood guard outside the door, while concealed monitoring devices operated within the room.

Chen Xi seemed unconcerned. He found a seat, sat down, and closed his eyes to rest.

Leona sat quietly in a corner, her face hidden beneath her hood.

The Lion King stood by the window,