Ailments of Yearning

At the center of Humanity's Salvation, Ian opens his eyes in the restraining cell. He is nothing but an undesirable guide who resists summons and argues without any strength. All bark and no bite.

From nothing comes nothing. But from madness, devastation births.

His gaze reflects the epitome of the human race-the strongest Esper whose smile twists without emotion and whose energy runs rampant. Ian can make it worse. He can become so much worse.

If he stretches his hand to that unyielding power, that enviable strength-

"I want you. I want to strip your skin and claim your strength; I want to carve your beauty and watch you fall from your pedestal," he says.

The man only smiles. The smile doesn't reach his eyes. "Then please, dear Guide. Take it."