Heeyya!

Azakarn's frown deepened and his aura suddenly changed. "Hmm, how unfortunate," he murmured. "It seems you're dead set on your decision. Selfish."

"You're only looking at this from your own narrow perspective, Apex Atticus. Here we stand, a united alliance that has given you protection and a safe environment to grow. And yet, you avoid your duties and ignore the responsibilities expected of you. You disregard the sacrifices others have made, all to follow your own selfish desires."

The room was silent, and the tension was thick. Atticus's hands were clenched tightly. He knew where this was going; this had been Azakarn's plan all along.

The man had anticipated his refusal—no sane person would ever agree to such terms. Stay and train in the domain of a race whose apex he had nearly killed?

If he accepted, there were only two outcomes: he'd either be killed by some 'accident' or forced into submission. It was only a matter of time.