***
In a world of darkness, Malik saw one thing before his mind's eye.
{Would you like a short break? Your life's third volume, 'When the Sparrow Falls,' has concluded.}
"...No. Continue. Let them suffer... And I... I need to say goodbye."
{Understood. As you seem eager to press on, we'll forgo the pleasantries—except to commend you on reaching your next chapter. Congratulations.}
"Just tell me the damn title."
{Very well. Welcome to Volume 4: I Saw a Dream.}
"..."
{May it be brief... or merciful.}
***
Malik laid Ali Baba on the ground, ignoring the fleeing bandits completely.
At that moment, his whole world was just this man beside him.
"You…"
Ali Baba smiled.
"Always were…"
A knowing smile.
"Too stubborn."
Malik shrugged his shoulders.
"Am I? I think I'm a reasonable guy."
Ali Baba's hand weakly grasped Malik's arm.
"You are not."
Malik chuckled.
"Thanks for that."
Aether began to wake around them, trying to synergize with Ali Baba.
