Lord of the Truth

Robin continued, his tone sharpening. ”They obey the Cosmic Elder only because he is stronger-because he gave the system its authority and could strip it away at any moment. Itʼs not respect or history that binds them-itʼs fear. Strength is the only language they still understand. Only by power can you bend them to your will.” ”They are my equals!” Althera shouted, her voice echoing through the still air. She gestured with both hands, her composure cracking. ”How can I attack academies that stand on the same level as I do? If I move against them, theyʼll call me insane-a tyrant who no longer knows friend from foe! I donʼt want to destroy them-I just want them to stand together against a shared enemy!” ”Personal interests outweigh unity,” Robin replied coolly, brushing the sand from his hands as he rose to his feet. ”Until the space beasts reach their own gates, no one will move. If youʼre not ready to control them, donʼt waste your breath hoping for their help.”

Altheraʼs shoulders sagged. Her heart sank deeper with every word. She knew he was right... and yet, she hated that truth. How could she possibly control them? Only someone like the Cosmic Elder could command that level of authority, that kind of reverence that silences worlds. ”Hey, dear Robin...” The old manʼs voice broke through the tension again, carrying an odd tone-half amusement, half disbelief. His wrinkled face lit up with faint curiosity.

Robin turned toward him, raising an eyebrow. ”Dear? Since when do you call me that, old man? What is it now?” ”...That young man there,” the elder said slowly, his arm trembling as he raised a crooked finger toward Jabba, ”is he... the gift you brought for me?”