[How curious. The dark-haired youth’s response offers Richard a unique perspective. Since childhood, he has been subject to gripping visions of Joan and of his father—ghosts both concocted by his own traitorous, unwell mind. But the boy suggests that the temporary visage of the statue may not have been Richard’s unconscious doing. Instead, some foul magic may be at play, preying on his vulnerabilities. Pausing to thoughtfully consider Sasuke’s words, Richard casts a brief albeit intense glance over a shoulder at the statue. “That, and access to our minds.” What being could possibly possess such power? Surely only the devil himself.]

If you are so confident that those individuals are not here, [he muses, tone distracted for only a moment before he returns his full attention to Sasuke,] then you can explain why, yes? In my short time here, I have witnessed men and women, adults and children—all supposedly brought to this realm against their will. Why do you believe those you knew could escape a similar fate?