Nwadiebube clenched his jaw. He could see it now—Nwadike was not merely indifferent. He was against him in this.
The question was… how far was he willing to push? And how far would Nwadike go to stop him?
Aqua's gaze remained steady as he regarded Nwadiebube.
"Are you sure about this, Your Highness?"
Nwadiebube narrowed his eyes, his posture unwavering. "Things may yet be smoothed over if you simply provide the information we require. But if not… then nothing can be done."
There was a finality to his words, a challenge veiled beneath the diplomatic phrasing. He was prepared for resistance, and it showed in the way he carried himself—expectant, assured.
And before Aqua could speak, Nwadiebube pressed forward, voice edged with something sharper.
"Even the godlings and the apelings have no say in this matter. This is human territory. A matter for mortals to decide."
