Chapter 189: Diverging Paths and Silent Promises

In a modest room within the Kingdom of Drawken, Johan sat on the edge of a wooden chair, his hand clutching his shoulder. Across from him, Aoi stood with a worried expression, trying her best to stay composed. The faint sound of Dwarven workers' footsteps echoed in the hallway, bringing life to the otherwise quiet atmosphere. Only Johan and Aoi were present—Henry and Otto had been excluded from this conversation for the sake of privacy.

"Hey, are you alright?!" Aoi's voice broke the silence, sharp but undeniably filled with concern.

Johan offered a faint smile, though he looked weary. "I am, for now," he said, though his tone wasn't entirely convincing. "Aoi, I need a favor."

Aoi stepped closer, crossing her arms over her chest. "Of course. What do you need?"