"Yes, I was waiting for you. You took so long to come out." Ang's tone was flat, as though he were merely making casual conversation, but his eyes were unfathomably deep as they remained fixed on Kash.
Kash's breathing quickened, and his fingers trembled almost imperceptibly.
He had already taken a crystal-clear Magic Communication Crystal from his Magic Waist Pouch and secretly infused it with mana, his fingertips nearly slick with sweat.
"Are you looking for help?" A faint smile tugged at Ang's lips as he spoke unhurriedly.
Kash shuddered and hurriedly explained, "Marquis Ange, you must be joking. You and I are both legends of the Empire. Why would I need to seek help? Wouldn't that make me seem petty?" His voice was tight, carrying a trace of ingratiation.
Ang leaned forward slightly, his gaze falling upon Kash with a palpable pressure. "But judging from your body's reaction, you're very afraid right now. Have I put you under that much pressure?"
"N-No." Kash swallowed and forced out a smile. "I'm just excited. I'd long heard that Marquis Ange had fought Grand Archmage Adelaide alone, and I've always greatly admired you. Now that I've met you, it's only natural that I can't remain calm."
"Admired me?" Ang raised an eyebrow and said blandly, "Then why do I feel that you don't mean what you say? You seem to harbor ill will toward me."
"My lord Marquis, you must have sensed wrong." Kash hurriedly shook his head, his voice trembling. "How could I possibly bear any ill will toward you?" Though he said so, he kept praying inwardly that the plea for help he had sent through the crystal would reach the palace sooner.
Ang's palm remained firmly pressed against his shoulder, heavy as a mountain. It made breathing difficult, and