Chapter 119: The Ascension Well

"Why the Silent Hand? Why now?"

"Why now? Timing, dear Ezra, is everything. The right moment, the right place... it all aligns eventually," X said cryptically.

Ezra sighed, feeling the conversation slipping through his fingers. "You really enjoy this, don't you? The mystery, the mask, the games."

X's projection nodded. "I do. It's the spice of life. And you, Ezra, you're a worthy opponent in this little dance of ours."

"Opponent? Is that how you really see me?" Ezra asked, genuinely curious. "Then why would you help me?"

"Aren't we all opponents in the grand game of life?" X replied, his tone philosophical. "Survival of the fittest and all that shit, you know."

Ezra leaned back, considering his next move. "You know, for someone who enjoys games, you seem quite invested in avoiding certain topics."

"Some topics are best left untouched. They spoil the fun." X said, his body language somehow potraying a wink.