The atmosphere inside the house suddenly grew tense.
Reg had already prepared himself to fight his "mother."
But just then.
Katarina nodded. "You're right."
"I know that I put you through a great deal of suffering in order to 'nurture' you."
"So now."
"I'd like to make it up to you."
Reg cautiously took a step back. "I don't need you to make anything up to me."
"I only want you to stop interfering in my life!"
Katarina smiled gently, as though looking at a child going through a rebellious phase. "You're an adult now. Don't be so willful."
"You should know that the sect is searching for you."
"Do you think you're safe just because you've come to Backlund?"
"Neither the Evernight Goddess, the Lord of Storms, nor the God of Steam and Machinery would interfere in the sect's internal affairs."
"In fact, infighting within the sect is something they'd be happy to see."
"You'll be alone and helpless here."
Reg scoffed. "You make it sound as though you're the only one who can save me."
Katarina gave a faint smile. "It doesn't just sound that way. I am the only one."
"Only I can save you."
Reg spread his arms. "How? By making me worship that 'Lord of War' of yours too?"
The hair beneath Katarina's hood stirred slightly as she said in an airy voice, "You should show reverence for the Lord."
Then she continued.
"Yes, she's the only one who can grant you protection now."
"Follow in her footsteps."
"Spread her glory."
"You have no better choice."
While Reg was hesitating.
Suddenly.
A gray tide appeared around the room.
It surged rapidly.
Rushing toward Katarina and Reg.
Reluctant but left with no choice, Reg moved closer to his "mother."
Once they stood together.
The dark-colored front