[ earlier in the week scien's feelings reflected a soft sentiment of ah, there you are. this time, it isn't something so surprised. rather, just the quiet welcoming of lucas's quieted, calmed feelings. the him that is cognizant and aware of his own mind, that makes active steps to try to slot things into place instead of letting the fury win.

hearing that he feels better—even if it's not perfect, because even the small steps of recovery are hard—is enough for now. scien doesn't expect or want a thank you. he only wants lucas's peace of mind. ]

When she asked for my help weeks ago, I knew I would have to accept from that moment that it could be the monster seeking to manipulate me at any time. I took my precautions, but I decided that if something happened, it was a risk I was prepared to take if the alternative was leaving her alone and without anyone.

It is not the first time I've been betrayed. I anticipate it won't be the last.

[ they talked about it in what feels like a lifetime ago. if scien is ever betrayed, it is only his own fault for creating the opening.

but even knowing this, he's not sure what it has to do with lucas's other tangle of emotions. lucas's core is kind and giving, even to demons—but scien can't comprehend an ending where people do anything but celebrate his death ]

Did it upset you?