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BURDEN III — RESPONSIBILITY
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This one crushed the ground beneath it, sending tremors through the earth.
A cracked throne hovered above the stone, ancient and imposing.
Images flooded his vision like a torrent.
Luna looking to him for guidance, eyes wide with trust.
Lysandra listening quietly to his words, nodding.
Nyxion smirking, but following without question, trusting his lead.
Children—Noir and others—calling him "Daddy," clinging to his legs.
Entire crowds reacting to his choices, lives hanging on his decisions.
The system asked plainly, voice echoing.
"Why lead?"
"Why decide for others?"
"Why not live only for yourself? Free. Unburdened."
Aiden laughed softly.
A tired, genuine sound amid the weight.
"Because someone has to."
The chains tightened violently, forcing air from his lungs.
His knees bent, buckling under the pressure.
"Because they chose me. Trusted me."
Another step, grinding forward.
