[ His first urge in reply to such a question is to deny being drawn towards the dark path at all. That would be what a rational person would do, declare no interest and march steadfastly into the blinding light ahead.

But that isn't true for Bruno and he's never been a good liar. ]

It's familiar. [ He admits, at last, with an exhale and a slump of his shoulders, like he'd been holding that back all this time, afraid to say the words. His answer, for once, lacks the usual nervous stammering to it. ] I've spent so much time in the dark already. I already know how it'll hurt. It won't be anything new.