Asmodea's voice was steady, but there was an underlying tension that hadn't been there earlier.
"For all of these reasons, Prince, I ask you not to awaken your dragon blood," she said. "It's putting the cart before the horse."
Zagreus didn't answer immediately.
He kept his gaze fixed on the moss-covered stone nearby. The jungle around them had quieted, as if even the insects were listening.
He let out a breath through his nose, not quite a sigh. His fingers flexed once before relaxing again.
"Alright."
Asmodea blinked. "Alright?"
"I'm not saying I agree," Zagreus said. "I'm saying I hear you."
She watched him for a long moment, but he didn't say more. His eyes didn't waver. After a few seconds, he added,
"I need time to think."
Asmodea hesitated, then gave a slight bow. "Of course."
"Leave, Asmodea."
She didn't argue. She just turned and walked away, steps fading quickly into the thick foliage behind her.
