Aviel shifted into his beast form. Enduring searing pain, he tore out his own heart-protecting scale with his own claws. Blood soaked his fur as he forced himself to remain steady, then he took out the key to the treasury and held it out.
"Take it. Just let Nina go."
Odian stepped forward as well, producing the scepter. "You can have this—but you must lift Nina's curse first."
The curse was notoriously complex, and their opponent was stronger than he was. Odian had no confidence he could undo it himself.
Lex and Dian each brought forth their merman pearls.
A satisfied smile spread across Yosan's face. Today's harvest was far richer than he had expected.
He had only meant to test them. After all, no one willingly handed over the very things that ensured their survival. And yet, these males cared so deeply for this small female that a mere threat had been enough to make them yield.
