[ It was a lesson hard=learned for Nico, that things that are fleeting can be beautiful and worthwhile, that everything that turns to dust is worth its weight in gold. The lesson that Sebastien gave his life for. Nico has tucked it into his heart and done his very best to live by it to this day.

Even mortals are not immune to the fear of loss — in fact they feel it more keenly than he ever could. He does not begrudge Aventurine his hesitation, his fear.

But oh, the sound of those shackles falling away, those eyes meeting his own, are the most beautiful things he's ever experienced. It feels like he can breathe again, basking in his beloved's gentle touch, determination radiating off him like a gentle glow. ]

Mon amour.

[ Breathed out, he angles his head to press a kiss to Aventurine's wrist. ]

You have no idea how glad I am to hear that. The road ahead will not always be easy, but it will be worthwhile, with you by my side.