Arms reached easily, wrapping around to hold another in a firm embrace, and Nigredo--fever, sickness, and all--murmured concerns beneath his breath. He found a kind of premonition afforded to parents and lovers alike, where the consequences of his beloved seemed as clear as his surroundings. As damning as the implications. And even as things were, Nigredo would not allow them to fall into place.

He was never the passive witness to a brother's suffering.

"You are tired," came the agreement, quiet and without heat. "You've done more for me than anyone." You've accepted me. And that was all he needed. Albedo was correct. Correct but--

Nigredo lowered his eyes, his line of sight filling with white. There would be parts and pieces to sort, but for now, what was in front of him was fine. "Trust me to live," he pleaded. "I will never betray you."