Pope Gregorius stood slowly, his expression cycling through shock, confusion, anger, and finally settling on something like barely controlled fury. His voice, when it came out, carried the full weight of his ecclesiastical authority.
"TheReaper. Explain yourself immediately. Why would you refuse to eliminate a demon lord who killed one of our heroes? Why would you actively oppose the very duty you were summoned to perform?"
TheReaper was silent for a long moment, his expression thoughtful as if carefully considering how to phrase his answer. Then he shrugged, and the casual gesture somehow made him seem more dangerous rather than less.
"Because I like him."
The throne room exploded.
"You WHAT?!" King Ferdinand roared, his voice echoing off the marble walls.
"That's impossible!" Commander Elric protested, his sword still drawn and his stance shifting to something more combat-ready.
"You can't be serious!" Gattychan said, his green eyes wide with shock and confusion.
