But I demonstrated balance.
And balance makes sustainable ascension possible.
“You proved divine blood can integrate safely.”
The baby kicks sharply.
Marcus watches the subtle movement in my abdomen.
“And that makes you far more dangerous than Northfall ever was.”
Silence.
“You’re afraid of success,” I whisper.
“I’m afraid of permanence.”
He tightens his grip on Asher’s hand slightly.
“Release him,” Kade says again.
Marcus sighs softly.
“You think I want to hurt him?”
“I think you’re using him.”
“No.”
He kneels in front of Asher again.
“Do you know what divine means?” he asks gently.
Asher frowns.
“It means special.”
“Yes. It means powerful.”
He looks up at me.
“You’re raising him to choose restraint.”
“Yes.”
“And if he chooses magnitude instead?”
“He won’t.”
“You
