Aiden nodded awkwardly, not quite understanding what the mysterious being meant by their paths being bound. The gesture made him look even younger, more vulnerable in the vast chamber.
The man's lips curved into an amused smile, and a low chuckle echoed through the hall. "Tell me, boy... do you want to get stronger?"
Aiden's silver eyes widened at the unexpected question. For a moment, he stood frozen, but then something shifted in his expression. His small shoulders straightened, and he looked directly at the man, determination burning in his gaze.
"Yes."
"Why?" The simple question hung in the air between them, heavy with meaning.
Aiden felt his confidence waver. His eyes dropped to the darkness beneath his feet, his hands clenching into tight fists at his sides. When he spoke, his voice was quiet but clear.
