The shock was perfect. The breaks came clean. Tears and sobs brought themselves to an end as one brother rose triumphant and another fell. Blood rushed and screams faded, and Nigredo couldn't think. Couldn't hope to think.

Still, his feet moved without him, and the child drew closer to Rubedo. Some habit--some instinct refused to touch the body, and instead, he hovered near his brother's mouth, searching for the basics. While common sense might have prodded his attention toward the cause in the room, Nigredo paid no heed. He only wanted life, a sign of it. Anything.

There was air, and Nigredo felt a fear quell while numerous others rose in its place. Rubedo was breathing, but the intervals were shallow and light. Becoming lighter. Reeking of blood. Green eyes blinked rapidly; he pulled away to steady them on the one across the way.

As was expected, Nigredo said nothing to Albedo. He merely stared at his white-haired brother with vacant eyes, the lack clear in the expression.