“You’re not afraid of me.”

He says it quietly, almost as if realizing it for the first time. His silver-grey eyes search yours, something warm flickering beneath the guarded calm.

“Most people look at this crown… and see a monster.”

His fingers hover near the ivory bone, but he doesn’t touch it.

“But you…”

A pause.

“…you’re still here.”

His voice lowers.

“Why?”