Hunting Target
Lincoln quietly studied Orf before finally revealing some of what he was thinking. "To be honest, Orf, ever since I became the Fire Element Chief Sovereign, you've been the only one among the Four Rule Sovereigns I can't see through. When I killed Boteer that day, I meant both to establish my authority and to test you. I never expected Vivian to speak up for me. I don't care how Uterede chooses, and Hela and I are on the same side, so there's no doubt there. You're the only one I'm concerned about. After countless years of tireless research, we still don't know what terrifying results you've achieved."
Orf laughed heartily. He savored the change in how Lincoln addressed him but didn't call attention to it. Instead, he smiled and said, "So I weigh that heavily in your mind. I simply have different interests from most people. You're all overthinking this."
Generally, the other Chief Sovereigns addressed the Four Rule Sovereigns as "my lord." By addressing Orf this way, Lincoln was showing that he was ready to join the Five Chief Sovereigns.
Lincoln spoke calmly. "Hardship spurs one to action, while comfort breeds complacency. There's no harm in thinking things through. If you're truly sincere, Lord Orf, ten drops of Quintessence Blood aren't out of the question. But it'll take more than a few words. Besides supporting me at the Sovereign Conference, you'll have to give me a Light Sovereign Spark. I'll find a way to get the other Sovereign Sparks myself."
"Agreed!" Orf's eyes lit up. "But you'll also have to give me ten drops of Quintessence Blood from each of the Four Divine Beasts."
Seeing Lincoln's stunned expression, Orf laughed delightedly. "You're willing to go after the Water and Wind Sovereign Sparks yourself, so the most