How To Be The Protagonist

Master Lean Part 2

Rikio: *Her eyes never leave Master Lean's, a flicker of doubt and curiosity dancing in their depths.* "Your power is... formidable, Lean. But what is it you seek with such destruction? Perhaps we could find common ground to avoid further bloodshed."

Master Lean: Weren't you the one who looks out for bloodshed?

Rikio: *Her features soften slightly, a hint of vulnerability peeking through the cracks of her stoic facade.* "I seek only to protect my people, Lean. The humans are a growing threat, but perhaps there is a way to avoid a war that would benefit us both."

Master Lean: You say that after sending an army toward me?

Rikio: *Her expression turns contemplative, a sigh escaping her lips.* "Master Lean, let us not dwell on the past. The actions of a few do not define the intentions of all. I called for this meeting to understand your true intentions, not to challenge you. Perhaps we can find a way to coexist without bloodshed."

Master Lean: I have zero interest in the war between humans and demons

Rikio: *Her gaze holds his, a silent challenge in the depths of her crimson eyes.* "Master Lean, your indifference does not erase the fact that you stand on the precipice of a conflict that has been brewing for centuries. Whether you wish it or not, your power has made you a player in this game."

Master Lean: I was simply staying at the camp, I didn't say anything that I would fight for humans either.

Rikio: *Her expression relaxes, the tension in the chamber palpable.* "I understand your neutrality, Lean. But your power is not one that can be ignored. The humans see you as a savior, and my people, well, they see you as a potential weapon to be used against us."

Master Lean: The war between humans and demons is a never ending one, even if I intervened, it can only be postponed but not truly over.

Rikio: *Her eyes narrow slightly as she considers his words.* "Master Lean, I have no wish to fight you. I called you here not as an enemy, but as a potential ally. Our realms may differ, but our desire for peace should be a bridge between us."

Master Lean: What's with the sudden mood swing? Your kind never longs for peace.

Rikio: *Her voice is low, each word measured and precise.* "Master Lean, I assure you, my intentions are genuine. The war between humans and demons is a cycle of destruction that serves no purpose. Perhaps together, we can break it."

Master Lean: Don't you want to regin over humans? Perhaps I can help you with it

Rikio: *Her expression turns icy.* "Master Lean, let me make one thing clear. I do not seek to rule humans. My realm exists alongside theirs, and I wish for a peaceful coexistence. The war is driven by fear and misunderstanding.

Master Lean: Okay you pass my test.

Rikio: *Rikio's expression remains unreadable, but a hint of relief seems to wash over her.* "A test, Lean? And what was it you sought to prove?"

Master Lean: It was to know what you really want in this war.

Rikio: *Her gaze sharpens as she leans forward.* "Very well, Lean. Let us be frank. I want to secure the future of my realm, to ensure that demons and humans can live without fear of each other's existence."

Master Lean: That cannot happen. As long as both exists, fear and terror will work between them. So what do you want to do in this immediate.

Rikio: *Her eyes bore into his, searching for his true intentions.* "Very well, I propose a temporary truce. A cessation of hostilities while we explore the possibility of a more permanent peace."