The butterfly extended its senses toward the two projections.
They did not resist.
Instead, a silent exchange followed.
Yu Xuan felt it.
Not the content.
But the fact of it.
And his expression darkened.
They were responding.
To this distant "uncle."
Betrayal was too strong a word, but the feeling was unpleasant.
He had guarded them.
Died for them.
Refused under pressure.
And now they were calmly communicating with another.
After several long moments, the butterfly withdrew its senses.
If its expression could be read, it would have been complex.
Because what it had sensed.
Was not reassuring.
Within those two, it felt the unmistakable mark of someone it knew extremely well.
And someone far more terrifying.
The butterflies were not brought here against their will, rather they were permitted.
Bound to Yu Xuan's soul.
By that being's will.
And if that being desired, the connection could be severed instantly.
Even erased.
The butterfly's thoughts sharpened.
