Author's Note: Unedited Chapter
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"A Triton guard?" Gustav's tone shifted from confrontational to curious, his grip loosening just enough to allow the guard to breathe more easily.
The guard catching his breath, quickly tried to leverage the moment.
"Yes, yes! I'm—I'm not here to cause trouble. I recognized you, Gustav Crimson, and curiosity got the better of me. I meant no harm!"
Gustav set him down but didn't release him completely, his hand firmly on Sael's shoulder.
"Curiosity? Or were you planning on outing my location?" Gustav's suspicion was evident.
The guard, realizing that honesty was his best chance at walking away unscathed, nodded hurriedly.
"It's true, I thought about it—but I swear, I haven't told anyone! Please, I have no interest in crossing someone like you."
Gustav studied him for a moment longer, then finally released him, stepping back.