The goblin huddled on the cold stone floor, looked up, and immediately dropped to his knees. "My Queen… you came again."
Ren knelt slightly, leveling her gaze with his. "Thanks to your help, we were able to save your people on Acre Island."
The goblin's eyes widened, glowing with a glimmer of hope. "You did? That's… that's so kind of you. Without your help, they would all be slaves now."
"And as I promised," she said gently, "I'm here to reward you."
The goblin gasped, stunned. He had never truly believed she would keep her word.
"My Queen… I've hurt your people. Do I truly deserve this?" the goblin whispered, guilt heavy in his voice.
Ren's expression softened, though her voice remained steady. "I spoke with the shifter whose hand you severed. She told me you had the chance to strike her neck… but you didn't. She may never forgive you, but after hearing your story, she's chosen to give you a second chance to live."
