She waited. Unlike before, this connection was taking far longer. Minutes passed. Then tens of minutes.
And eventually. An entire hour. Only then did the plate finally react. Its surface rippled, and a new projection slowly came to life. It was a man. Immaculately dressed.
White hair framed a youthful face completely untouched by age, not a single wrinkle visible anywhere upon his features. His deep crimson eyes stared directly at the woman without the slightest hint of hesitation.
Yet despite that intense gaze, his expression resembled that of a mischievous child who had just discovered a new toy.
The very moment his eyes landed on her, a playful grin spread across his face.
"Oh, Apate."
His voice was light. Almost teasing.
"Perfect. I was wondering where you ran off to."
His crimson eyes gleamed with amusement.
"Everything going well on your end?"
"Yes, sir."
Apate lowered her head slightly, her tone as polite and composed as ever.
"And thank you for asking."
