Fiona stared at Lord L's extended hand, tension crashing in her chest.
The room was still. Every eye was on her. She took one deep breath…
Then raised her voice.
"Fuck it," she shouted. "I'll join."
She grabbed his hand without hesitation.
Her grip was tight. Final.
"Without Fionyx," she muttered.
"My stream wouldn't be worth half as much."
"And honestly, the perks of being here? Too damn good to pass up."
She glanced up at Lucius.
"But I still get my freedom, right? No leash, no cage?"
Lucius nodded smoothly. "Of course, Fiona."
His tone didn't falter.
"Freedom of expression. Of voice. But never of betrayal. That's the only line."
Fiona grinned. "Sounds fair enough."
Lucius took a step back, letting go of her hand.
"Then let's make this official," he said.
"Let me reintroduce myself properly."
"I am Lucius Luxoria."
His voice held no arrogance—only the weight of truth.
Next to him, the taller masked woman stepped forward and lifted her own mask.
