Achilles nodded with appreciation.
"I see," he replied with calm acceptance. "Not that it matters, though. I wasn't planning on keeping the charade much longer anyway."
The Emperor acknowledged this admission with movements that showed respect for tactical honesty, even from enemies whose presence threatened imperial security.
Around them, the circle of enhanced beings tightened their formation while radiating power that could have ignited gas giants.
"Would you enlighten us as to why we are all gathered here?" the Emperor asked, his tone carrying analytical curiosity mixed with growing concern.
"For you to enact such an elaborate infiltration suggests either that you lack sufficient power for direct confrontation, or that you possess other motivations that require more... subtle approaches."
