Chapter 17: Confrontation at the Crossroads

When Cassiel finally trapped Arin in the dark, flickering light of their refuge, the tension was palpable. The agony in their emotions was reflected in the dancing shadows on the walls. Anger, terror, and a strong, unwavering love that had endured through everything swirled in Cassiel and Arin's eyes as they met.

"Arin, don't tell me lies. Not today, given how far we've come. Cassiel's voice wavered with haste. "I am aware that you have plans."

Arin was trapped and could only turn aside, his heart racing. They had made every effort to conceal the truth and protect Cassiel from learning that their fate was predetermined. However, Cassiel was too observant and personal for deceit to be effective. Arin took a long, trembling breath Eventually, they gave up, their shoulders slumping with the realization.

"It's true," Arin said in a deep, vulnerable tone. "I learned what I need to do to put an end to this from the Time Fragments. Cassiel, I must confront the thing by myself. It's the sole option. They couldn't look Cassiel in the eyes, so they glanced down. "I'll be lost in that world forever if I fail. And I might not return if I succeed.

Cassiel's whole body was tense with barely controlled emotion, and their hands were balled into fists. Their voice trembled as they battled back the tears that were burning in their eyes. "You believe I'll leave you by yourself? Do you really think I can watch you go? With every stride they took, they were desperate. "You provided me with a motivation to defend this world, Arin. You convinced me that something was worthwhile. It's my turn now to return the favor.

The words were like a physical force to Arin, and Cassiel's certainty caused their determination to falter. This was the one who had fought beside them, bled alongside them, and supported them through every hardship and sacrifice. They would have to leave behind the one person who had become their ray of hope if they were to fight this last battle alone.

"Cassiel, I'm not sure if we'll make it out." Thick with passion, Arin's voice was hardly audible above a whisper. But perhaps we can make a difference if we go together. Perhaps we are not required to follow the road outlined for us.

As if keeping them near would help them stay grounded in this world, right now, Cassiel extended his arm and drew Arin into a tight embrace. Cassiel whispered, "Then we'll do it together," against Arin's hair. "No matter what, you have my support. No more secrets. No more plans without my presence.

They silently pledged to one another in that hug to confront the dark together, to fight for a future in which neither would have to say goodbye, and to defy fate if necessary. A delicate, priceless hope began to bloom in Arin's heart at that very moment.

Maybe fate wasn't predetermined.