i sank into the sea, wrapped in piano strings

Nikolai

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

The laugh surprises Nikolai and he finds a small grin forming. "Maybe. She's really awesome." The wince however grabs all of the young Ascended's attention. Sharp eyes catalogue each and every injury that mars the Flood at the moment. Nikolai might not feel pain now, but he remembers it clearly. He'd only been an Ascended for two seasons after all.

Stepping forward he holds out a hand, all nervousness suddenly gone. "Do you want help with that?" The offer is given with a soft voice. Uncharacteristic gentleness lines Nikolai's furrowed brow. "I used to help my mom with her bandages. I still remember how." He explains, memories of helping his mother after a rough day flashing through his mind. Nikolai suddenly feels even more grateful for their Ascensions. His mom hadn't suffered like that since.

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