"Great," I muttered. "Another impossible task to add to the list."
Garren smirked faintly. "Welcome to my world."
---
As we left Garren's chamber, Ji Ho was unusually quiet. I didn't press him; he needed time to process everything. Hell, so did I.
"Hey," he said suddenly, breaking the silence. "Do you think… do you think I can really control this thing?"
I glanced at him, seeing the fear and uncertainty in his eyes. "I think you're stronger than you realize," I said honestly. "And I think you've got a better chance than most."
He nodded slowly, a flicker of determination crossing his face. "Alright. Let's do this. Whatever it takes."
I smiled faintly. "That's the spirit. Now, let's find that binding—and end this."
"I'm prepared, are you?"
"I'm always prepared," I replied, adjusting the divine blade at my side. "The real question is—are you ready to dive headfirst into danger knowing there's no turning back?"