“The way he phrased it,” Luka starts, a clear and growing agitation with Garrot’s contempt in his voice. Who does this guy think he is! “It sounded like a contract he and the Wizard made with someone else. Setting up a stupid contract like this for no reason is ridiculous and nonsensical, beyond even what I think they’re capable of.”

Though Luka can’t see Garrot, his own body language sours in a way that mirrors the man’s.

“And maybe Sxicq is so powerful because they asked for power. I don’t think Sxicq expected or knew they’d be sealed away. That’s something the Protector did to them against their will.”