Ava's eyes brimmed with fresh tears, her emotions raw and vulnerable as she held Silas's intense gaze. Her voice trembled, barely audible. "But... I can't... fail. I have to..."
Silas's face darkened, a chilling undertone seeping into his voice as he leaned closer, his eyes gleaming with a predatory intensity. "Are you absolutely certain, Ava? You're telling me that you *must* clear this realm, secure that job, save your mother? That you're truly ready to risk everything?"
Her lips quivered, but her gaze didn't waver. Her answer, soft but resolute, seemed to cut through the tension hanging between them. "Yes... I am."
"Then say the word," Silas murmured, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous whisper. "Say the word, and I'll help you."