*flashback*
"Your Majesty, I am hesitant to proceed, yet I must for this for a reason," Zavian began steadily but shadowed with unease. He paused as his sharp eyes studied Alaric from head to toe. The risks of this ritual burdened him so. Because he knew that forcing a soul to merge into another body came with dire consequences. The soul might successfully take hold, but the odds of Alaric losing his memories were painfully high.
"Do not speak more, mage," Alaric commanded, his tone edged with warning, cutting through the air like a blade.
Zavian sighed as a quiet resignation crossed his face. "Very well, I shall proceed," he replied, inclining his head. "But there is one thing I must ask of you first. You should bring something with you." His voice softened as he offered the suggestion
