For a long time, Damian and the man talked about everything and nothing, conversations flowing from serious lessons to casual observations about the world.
The man shared wisdom earned through decades of struggle.
And Damian also found himself sharing things he'd never told anyone.
And throughout it all, they laughed.
But eventually, the man stood up from the edge of the mountain.
"Thank you, child."
His voice carried genuine warmth.
"It's been so long since I've had anyone to talk with like this. I'd almost forgotten what it felt like."
He looked at Damian with those kind eyes.
"But now it's time for me to actually provide the guidance this fragment was created for."
'Ah…'
Damian's thoughts stuttered.
'How long were we talking for?'
He'd lost track of time completely, the conversation flowing so naturally that minutes or hours had become meaningless.
'Is this… what having a grandfather is supposed to feel like?'
The thought came with a strange weight.
