“I do not know, Mr Asano. I’ve never had a familiar. And as for why I did not accept the bond—” “No,” Jason said firmly, cutting him off. “I know you might feel awkward when the others accepted the bond and you didn’t, but you never have to explain yourself to me. With everything you’ve done, you’ve earned more gratitude than I’ll ever be able to pay back. Even if you choose to not return, the next time I summon a vessel, that’s okay. You’ll still be my friend and that’s the only expectation I have of you.” Shade stood in silence for a long time before finally speaking. “You do not have to pay
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