"So that's how it is." The Emperor glanced at another floating screen. Seeing the Sobek fleet arrayed in formation and firing on the giant beast, he smiled in understanding. "Let me guess. Your subordinate acted on your behalf, pointed them in the right direction, and strengthened their resolve. It was Lieutenant General Ostana Barr, wasn't it?"
Brunhild figured she didn't need to answer, so she simply smiled.
"Then where is Jiafiel?" The Emperor closed his eyes slightly. "I can feel her. She's in the celestial realm."
Brunhild still didn't answer, but her smile had faded.
"Actually, you needn't be in such a hurry, Bryn. When Sobek saw a Void creature appear in the space city, he'd be the first to protect the people. The young man may not be much of a general, but he's an even more remarkable talent. He can be put to great use!"
Brunhild said, "Sobek and his comrades are all worthy of trust, but I don't dare put much faith in Duke Garrybean. My distant cousin is a shrewd woman."
"She is indeed a flexible woman, and she's already made a new choice. That's good. Very good."
The Emperor opened his eyes again. His gaze passed over the flower beds and swept across Shali. The illusory figure, formed from spiritual particles, rippled faintly.
"Just as this little one said, calling it a pet would be self-deception. I've glimpsed a new possibility. So it is both a vessel and a bridge."
His gaze turned to Brunhild, open admiration in his eyes.
Brunhild didn't like that look. The way the Emperor regarded her was more like someone admiring the finest work of art he had personally created.
"So you realized that being human has its limits, and decided to become a Void Lord?" Brunhild sneered.
"Bryn, you're