บท 500: Defense Tribulation

"How long do you think it'll take for him to come out?" in a Temple of Shadow bar, one Elder asked another. "Been 3 months already…"

"I don't know," the other Elder shrugged, sipping his drink. "He's been closed up for far longer."

The first Elder sighed. 

"Man, I just wish we had a closer relationship with the person that's leading us. Usan was a friend and leader, but Leader Liam is just… a leader. And he's damn terrifying… not that I have a problem with that, y'know?"

"If you have any issues with his leadership," the second Elder said sternly, a little worried someone might overhear, "say it to his face."

"No thanks," the first Elder said immediately. "I value my life." 

"That's what I thought," the second Elder said. "Besides, that's the only kind of person that could keep people like us in check. It makes sense for our leader to be the worst of us all."

"True, true," the first Elder said, nodding in agreement. "Can't deny that."