章 173: Reality was a Harsh Mistress

He knew that their paths were set on a collision course, and the allure of such fantasies might be forever out of reach.

Yet in the midst of turmoil and uncertainty, even the briefest moments of respite and indulgence were cherished.

And so, Vicar allowed himself to revel in the tantalizing possibilities that his imagination conjured, even as the world around him churned with conflict and impending change.

Unfortunately, fate had different plans.

They met as enemies.

"Hhh!" An exasperated exhale escaped him, a mixture of frustration and regret tinging his breath. How vexing it was that figures as captivating as Ragnar and Sophia had been positioned as foes rather than comrades in arms.

Vicar allowed his mind to briefly wander, picturing a different scenario altogether. In this alternate reality, Ragnar and Sophia stood beside him, their camaraderie solidified through shared purpose and mutual trust.