Aster's hopeful expression reminded Kael a little too much of the boy he used to be—that wide-eyed, stubborn boy who was always chasing something just out of reach. Even now, it seemed as though Aster was seeking something.
It was painfully clear now to Kael. Aster had a reason for pursuing the staff. Then, he remembered the dwarf king's story about an intruder many years ago, and couldn't help but think that—whatever Aster's goal was—hadn't changed, even after all these years.
Kael let out a weary sigh and rubbed his forehead. "Aster—"
"You finally called my name, Brother Kael!" Aster interrupted, his face lighting up like a child praised for the first time.
"Yes, yes," Kael replied with a tired nod. The pure joy radiating from Aster just because he called him by name was almost blinding. And somehow, that made it harder to say what he had to say. But he couldn't ignore the tension growing beside him.
