The question hung between them like a blade waiting to fall. Klaus watched Nicholas process the challenge, expecting hesitation or nervous laughter—the typical response when someone realized they'd overstepped with empty threats.
Instead, Nicholas's eyes hardened.
"You want to test my resolve," Nicholas said, his voice steady as granite. "Fine. But understand what you're asking for."
Klaus tilted his head, intrigued despite himself. Most people would have backpedaled by now, offered excuses about not wanting to damage estate property or some other face-saving retreat. Nicholas showed no such inclination.
"I've faced apostles before," Nicholas continued, rising from his chair with fluid grace that spoke to trained muscle memory. "I know what they can do when fully unleashed. Cities turned to ash in minutes. Mountains carved like clay. Reality itself bent until it screams."
Interesting metaphors, Klaus thought. Almost like he's seen it firsthand.
