Ian's POV
I wanted to laugh. Cry. Scream. Something. But all I managed was a shallow breath and a slow nod. “So… you’re saying I have no choice.”
“There is always a choice,” Ava said gently. “But some paths are carved by something greater than will.”
My fists clenched by my side.
She was already moving - gliding. The crystal waters in the pool at the center of the shrine rippled, glowing softly beneath the moonlight that filtered through the trees.
“I deserve to know more before I agree to this,” I said, rising to my feet, though my legs trembled. “You can’t j-just throw divine threats at me and expect blind obedience.”
Ava turned her head slowly. “You already agreed, Ian.”
I swallowed hard. “You tricked me.”
“No,” she said. “You listened.”
I swallowed, reality gutting me
