Lucas' expression hardened. "A kingdom falling isn't enough."
"No," she replied. "To them, that is still within the natural order. Wars, destruction, even the fall of nations… these things do not warrant their intervention."
Lucas' gaze sharpened further. "So the world has to be on the verge of ruin before they act."
She nodded once. "Yes. Only when the balance of the entire realm is threatened do they step in."
A silence followed, heavier now.
Lucas let out a quiet breath, his voice steady but edged with resolve. "Then we're on our own."
The empress watched him, her expression calm, though there was a faint weight behind her eyes. "For now," she said.
Lucas looked back at her, his gaze unwavering. "Then we don't wait for them," he said. "We move with what we have."
She held his gaze for a moment longer, then gave a slight nod. "That is the only choice you have."
