"…It is precisely the truth."
"...." The two Guardians exchanged a subtle, almost imperceptible glance, as if measuring each other's thoughts, before turning back to the dark-skinned guest. Their smiles widened, revealing rows of polished, gleaming teeth that caught the dim light of the hall, a faint glint that made them seem both charming and dangerously composed. "Ranther, tell me— exactly which side are you on? Have you come here to provoke us even further against the Grave Centennial Empire?"
Ranther remained calm, yet there was a weight to his words. "I am not foolish enough to try hiding something so obvious—not from masters of your experience and power, at least," he said, his voice measured, deliberate. "It is only natural for anyone to assume that the Grave Double Centennial Empire is backed by immense resources, expanding at a pace that could intimidate whoever. Your caution is justified; fear is a reasonable response to what you see."
