Van frowned deeply, then started to walk toward Arietta, closing the distance between them. As angry as the whole situation made him, showing that anger wouldn't work. But compassion, that rarely failed him before.

Once in front of Arietta, he moved down to one knee so that he was eye level. "I know you wouldn't disobey me without a very good reason. However, Luke needs to be found safe or else something terrible will happen." He placed a hand on Arietta's shoulder, making sure not to hold too tightly. "If he's hurt, then everything that Fon Master Ion has been working for will be undone. You still want to help Ion, don't you? He would be pleased if you did."

He glanced back at the Ion replica and only hoped that he was smart enough to play along.