[Heizou is very perceptive, and it's one of the t hings Lyney loves about the man. Even if it gets Heizou some odd looks with others, what's life without a little trouble?]
Oh, I sure did. That little nurse is pleasant, but I don't think a Melusine has ever made me jumpy before.
[He takes another breath and lets out a sigh.]
I know we all messed up that mission, but... I'm the oldest. How can I not blame myself for what happened? And seeing him, it just... reminds me of that awful day.
[He finishes off Lyney's little braid with an expert twist of his fingers, and then lets his fingers comb through other parts of his hair. The touch slow and gentle and soothing, keeping the hair out of Lyney's face so that Heizou can really look at him, patiently observing him while he lets out his feelings.]
Things happen, Lyney. It doesn't sound like any of you even made any real mistakes. The situation may not have been what you expected, but you made the best plan you could based on what you knew. Just because something doesn't go according to plan doesn't make it your fault.
[Heizou gently raises Lyney's chin so that their eyes can meet. And he gives the other a firm, but understanding look.]
You don't have to forgive the Duke for what he did or how he did it. But you should forgive yourself for being caught off guard.
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book2thehead
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Date: 24 Jan 2026 04:14 (UTC)Oh, I sure did. That little nurse is pleasant, but I don't think a Melusine has ever made me jumpy before.
[He takes another breath and lets out a sigh.]
I know we all messed up that mission, but... I'm the oldest. How can I not blame myself for what happened? And seeing him, it just... reminds me of that awful day.
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Date: 24 Jan 2026 07:02 (UTC)Things happen, Lyney. It doesn't sound like any of you even made any real mistakes. The situation may not have been what you expected, but you made the best plan you could based on what you knew. Just because something doesn't go according to plan doesn't make it your fault.
[Heizou gently raises Lyney's chin so that their eyes can meet. And he gives the other a firm, but understanding look.]
You don't have to forgive the Duke for what he did or how he did it. But you should forgive yourself for being caught off guard.