He remained silent for a moment, his expression unchanged.
He turned his gaze fully to Harribel, eyes steady, analytical.
โPeace is not created by balance,โ he said evenly. โBalance exists because conflict does.โ
He took a single step forward, boots stopping slowly. โ
โ Strength isn't just for conquering and similar matters. It's also for protecting and guiding. Perhaps you disagree with me, as all I seek is peace in the place I protect. โ
โProtection, guidanceโฆ those are luxuries afforded by power already secured.โ
His eyes narrowed slightly in judgment.
โYou guard what you have. I correct what tilts the world too far in one direction.โ
Jugram straightened, posture rigid.
Jugram stepped forward with a calm demeanor, the faint clink of metal marking his movement. His eyes lifted to meet hers.
โจโYou sit upon a world that remembers conquest,โ he said quietly. โYet you rule it without rage.โ โ
His gloved hand adjusted the strap at his wrist.
โจโThat restraint isโฆ noteworthy.โ
He inclined his head slightly, not quite respect, yet not dismissal, but acknowledgment.
โจโTell me, Queen of Hueco Mundo, do you believe strength exists to dominate othersโฆ โ