The words that followed would affect every aspect of Lewis’ life from this point forward, and he knew that it would be a choice that could very well have irreversible consequences. He thought back to the guild that he and Xeik had started, raised from the ground up with the help of their benefactors. He thought of the smile that Danwe held as she showed them a path to free themselves, and the determination on Xeik’s face as he forged the way. He thought back to the lighthearted, yet equally as impressionable Bat who had offered his tavern as a home base. And of course, he could not but see the faces of every boy who had willingly followed Xeik into the light. He was their champion, their savior who had brought them up from the streets and cruelty.

But it was just a lie. The light did nothing but cast a greater shadow. For every life they saved, another was lost. It was a simply balancing act, and Xeik’s self righteous ignorance would do nothing more but delay the inevitable. Death would come regardless. Strength was absolute, and it was the strongest who would see the way through. Raith saw this, and saw potential in Lewis. The path forward was clear. With strength, Lewis would right the wrongs in the world. The end truly justified the means.

“Lord Raith,” Lewis said as he took a step back, kneeling. He took a breath, unsure of exactly how to phrase what was needed. “I vow to follow your commands, and devote my strength and power to you.” He paused. Was that enough? Would that satisfy the God?

More importantly, did that satisfy me? Is this the path I should take? Despite asking himself this, he felt no wavering in his resolve. “No matter what…I will follow you. Even if the world turns on me.”

Raith smiled as Lewis swore his loyalty to the newest of the Deities, just as Raith had known he would. The boy was ripe for moulding, he was perfect for shaping into the image of himself and Raith intended to do just that. Raith reached out, placing a hand on his new apprentice's shoulder. "Remain steadfast, hold onto the knowledge that you are on the right path - the path that is truest in this world regardless of what those fools of the Light believe. Come Lewis, I believe we should set you up a room so that you can settle into your new home, I will introduce you to the Celestials under my command so that they are aware of your presence. We will start your training immediately, there is no use in waiting." 

Standing up Raith smiled and led the way back out of the lounge. Time to begin