Max straightened, his crimson aura flickering faintly. His tone was cautious, but steady. "What is it?"
If it was anything about shackling him again, about forcing him into a cage, he would refuse outright—even if the one asking was the leader of the Phoenix God Nation, one of the strongest beings in existence.
Aden's eyes sharpened slightly. "I want you to enter the Heavenly Lord Secret Domain."
Max blinked once. Then, after a moment, he exhaled and shrugged, his crimson wings spreading lightly. "That, I'm planning to do anyway." His voice carried no hesitation, only steel. "But hear me clearly. Do not place prohibitions on me. Do not dictate where I go in the Middle Domain. I despise being controlled—especially by those I put my trust in. If I am to trust you, I'll need more than just your words."
The air grew tense.
