The process itself was no longer important. What mattered was the undeniable reality this outcome had revealed.
Yemiga could, and would, do it again at any moment.
"Now, get out."
Roland finally turned his head, his gaze sweeping over the rigid faces of his companions. His expression left no room for negotiation, only an undeniable command.
"Leave the archives. Go as far as you can. This is between him and me now."
He had anticipated his companions' reactions.
Shock. Anger. And perhaps, a sliver of fear.
But regardless, they had to leave.
If Yemiga could 'rewind' time once, he could do it countless times.
As long as they remained, they were Yemiga's most effective hostages, his most powerful leverage—a sword of Damocles hanging over Roland's head, ready to fall at any moment.
He couldn't bear it a second time.
Not even the *possibility*... of witnessing them be annihilated.
Yet, his words were not met with the hesitation, fear, or obedient retreat he had expected.
