Chapter 293: Captured Shadow

XENOIS

"Damn right I would have," I confirmed. "Because it was reckless and dangerous and you're children who shouldn't be fighting ancient supernatural creatures."

"But now you have a prisoner who can give you information," Lake pointed out. "Now you have leverage and intelligence and a chance to understand what you're fighting against. We did that. We gave you that advantage."

I wanted to argue, wanted to explain why the ends didn't justify the means, why their safety mattered more than tactical advantages. But looking at their faces—so serious, so certain of their actions—I realized this would be an ongoing conversation, not something I could resolve...