"What did you… just say?"
Azriel's voice came out hoarse. He watched the Grandmaster with caution and alarm.
The Grandmaster let out a small, weary sigh.
"I know everything—from the moment my eldest was in the same palace as the skinwalker disguised as the prince, to the moment the Great Divine Star Spirit Emperor made a deal with her in her weakest hour, took advantage of her, and shackled her in an endless forest so he could copy her [unique skill]."
Hearing those words, Azriel stared at him, stunned. Slowly, his face shifted; his jaw tightened until his teeth ground together.
"So you knew all along… and you did nothing? Just hiding in this village, staring at the trees that are part of your daughter? Did you think she felt your gaze day and night—that this was how you showed support? Ah, a Grandmaster—one of the strongest humans in this world—watching from between the trees while his daughter cried in misery. What—were you too ashamed to show your face to her?"
