Though he's only just been reborn, Gaja recognizes that look. It's the face of someone who's never been given a choice. How pitiable. But Gaja refused to pity him. Cian's making a choice now and that's brave of him. He made a choice to help the phoenix, too. He's clearly someone who wants autonomy. And that's all Gaja's offering: a taste of freedom. If Cian decides he wants to return to this house, that will be his choice, too.

As it should be.

"Tell me," he urges. "Say the word and I'll take you away."