The conversation moved to the main seating area. Naeku sat rigidly on a plush couch, her narrowed eyes never leaving Kudzai, who nervously shifted under her penetrating gaze.
Beside him, Nobuntu gracefully arranged herself on an armchair, her expression firm yet tinged with regret. Erik silently positioned himself near the window, appearing casual but sharply observant. With Naeku's arrival there, his work was essentially done.
The awkward silence hung thickly for a moment. Kudzai tried to speak several times, but no sound ever left his lips. Finally, Nobuntu took a deep breath, visibly steeling herself.
"Naeku," she began softly, sincerity saturating her tone. "I wish you to understand that our departure wasn't what you believe it to be. We never intended to abandon you or your people."
Naeku's jaw tightened visibly, and her eyes hardened. "Yet you did."
