"At this point, they're one and the same," Harlow replied with surprising candour. "My family's position depends entirely on managing this transition now. If the covenant fails, the Order becomes irrelevant, and so do I."
Through their bond, Maya felt Leon's shadow-enhanced perception, analysing Harlow's statement. "He's telling the truth," the shadow dragon confirmed. "Self-interest aligns with cooperation."
"Very well," Maya said. "But you won't go alone. Michael will accompany you."
The former Nullifier nodded, understanding immediately. "I can verify his statements for the military. They'll have their own enhanced operatives who can sense deception."
Harlow accepted this arrangement with a slight inclination of his head. "A reasonable precaution. The military will have questions ab
