Another stepped in his sights without warning, placing Nigredo in a horrendous state of surprise as his heart lurched forth against its cage. He halted in his steps and tried to breathe. Bewilderment would only make that more difficult.

He finally gained a measure of composure, and the child glanced up at the adult with something like fear in his eyes. Not for her, no, but for another. "I apologize, but I don't have time," he forced out, reaching to grab the other's free hand. With his own, Nigredo pressed the ring to the palm and released, stepping back in the process. "Let me know when you've finished."