"So, that's what happened to you."
"Yes, Queen Vania. Quite interesting, wouldn't you agree?"
"It is."
Riley had recounted everything that had happened since their last meeting—from the Planet of the Gods, to being flung 600 years into the future, the Realities Tower created by Paige, the Grand Triangle, and now, Camrose.
Throughout his story, Queen Vania listened in silence. Occasionally, she hummed or nodded, her gaze fixed on Riley, who remained lying with his head resting on the chopping block the entire time.
Even as a heavy silence settled between them, Riley didn't move. He simply stared up at her.
"I find something even more interesting now, Queen Vania," Riley finally broke the stillness. "I have stopped time… and yet not only can you move—you are able to speak with me. I was not aware you could also manipulate time."
"I can't," Queen Vania replied with a soft hum. "But I can move through stopped time. There's a subtle difference."
