Arthur sat in silence, legs crossed, arms resting on his knees.
He did not speak.
The others waited, though Aquan said nothing. The wind was still, and the plains around them held their breath. Tiara looked toward Arthur, her gaze uncertain. Ali simply closed his eyes again, content to rest.
Aquan didn't push. "An oath is not forced," he said finally. "It must come when the soul is ready to be bound."
Arthur gave no response.
He wasn't sure what oath to take. Every part of him rejected the idea of being bound by something, even if it came from himself. He'd spent too long clawing out of chains. Swearing new ones felt wrong.
He thought about what he wanted. About Ali's question.
What do you want?
Arthur didn't know.
So he remained silent.
***
That night, they stayed within the camp. A crystal dome was offered to them, warmer than expected, and large enough for three.
