An Honest Lie

In the room, heavy black curtains tightly covered the windows, leaving only a few faint rays of light struggling through the gaps and casting mottled shadows across the floor.

Several burning torches on the walls crackled and popped, their flickering flames stretching their shadows long.

After a pause, Moqorro slowly spoke. "Were those who attacked the Lord of Roses merely bait to draw the island's attention?"

"I was giving those 'loyal' leaders an opportunity to win glory."

Crow's Eye's single eye shifted instantly toward Moqorro, an unreadable glint flickering within it. The corner of his mouth curled slightly with a trace of mockery. "I never thought you would pity others. That truly surprises me, Priest Moqorro."

Facing Crow's Eye's hawk-sharp gaze, Moqorro instead smiled faintly. "My sole duty is to serve you, King Euron."

Crow's Eye met his gaze for a moment, scratched his hair, then suddenly broke into a wide grin, revealing a row of somewhat uneven teeth. "You really are coldhearted."

His laughter echoed through the room, sounding somewhat abrupt.

After a brief pause, Crow's Eye reined in his laughter and continued, "Winter and midsummer, evil and justice, death and life..."

He shook his head with an amused smile. "A war between true gods. The price of serving me is that I must fight for your god."

Crow's Eye's gaze shifted. Pinching his chin, he scrutinized Moqorro as though examining some strange and curious object. "This 'price' does not seem particularly fair."

"The Long Night is dark, and danger lurks everywhere."

Moqorro dipped his head slightly, his expression grave and solemn. "On one side stands the God of Shadow and Fire; on the other, the Great Other. The war between true gods began at the dawn of the world. Before the final judgment arrives, everyone must choose a