i sank into the sea, wrapped in piano strings

Nikolai

We are only haunted by the things we refuse to accept
-Bridgett Devoue

Nikolai relaxes as Sunjata takes the floor. It's a bit of a surprise that the Flood is so willing to indulge his questions, but it is appreciated. It's intriguing to hear how Sunjata and Nate ended up in their current situation. Married and clearly dedicated to each other, and yet arguably on opposite sides of a looming war. Yet they seemed to be finding a way around that given that Sunjata was here in teh Grounds.

Humming, Nikolai conceded enough to be vaguely tactful. "What do you think of them? Of the Voice and Safrin? Would you tell me, please?" The last word feels nearly foreign on his tongue but he's trying, ok? Nikolai adored the Voice, revered her and what she'd done for him and his mom. He was curious to hear Sunjata's thoughts on the Goddess, as well as his thoughts on Safrin.

Resilience is born even when we feel like we are dying
-Alex Elle