Ryan blinked as he spoke, his voice trembling, "Come again?"
Avtis huffed, sneering. "Last I checked, your hearing was good."
"No, no, you said, I lost over forty years of my lifespan."
"Ah, yes, you did, cause you are too weak."
Ryan's brow twitched. "Forty years is nearly half my life."
"Yes, and you better grow stronger, do you see how humi..."
"Enough, father." Xetuna stepped forward, her tone firm. "Your apostle saved us by taking on a cost that should never have been his to bear. He didn't just do what was required; he risked his own well-being because I trusted the wrong people. He deserves recognition, not blame. I speak up because I am responsible for his suffering, and I want to make that clear."
Avtis snorted derisively as Xetuna defended Ryan. "Child, you took Aurelia's weapon and armour, didn't you?"
"Yes."
"Feel free to use them as you see fit."
"Thank you, your majesty."
Avtis sighed as he spoke, "Mythra, are they ready to venture out?"
"Yes, grandfather."
