"They obtained the second core through persistence and traitorous political alliances."
"And Orion," Selphira continued, her voice full of disgust that made each word sharp, "negotiated using that leverage he'd carefully saved for the best moment... The moment you 'lost the light' and the new chamber Zhao found was known... He offered to give the second core in exchange for Lykea's white heart. Trade one key for another."
"Sirius was furious at first when the proposal came, rage at his brother's audacity nearly overwhelming any pragmatic decision. But Orion sweetened the deal with promises designed to exploit his desperation. Said they'd only take the heart if it was absolutely necessary to defend the city from mutants attacking. That it was to protect Luna too in his absence, guardianship disguised as necessity. That Sirius could recover it as soon as he returned from the next ruin, a temporary loan rather than permanent loss."
