i sank into the sea, wrapped in piano strings

Nikolai

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

Nikolai can guess that the bargain was a difficult one. The price was likely steep to keep a Demi-god of Safrin's enemy alive. Time would tell if the cost was worth it. But given how much Sunjata clearly loved Nate, it very likely would be. Hopefully.

The refute on Sunjata's part makes Nikolai smirk. "Of course." The young Ascended fully disagrees given his current opinion of Nate. But arguing over it would clearly be a waste. Sunjata is clearly head over heels and delusional.

Relaxing, Nikolai bites his lip in contemplation. After a moment of hesitation, he gives into his mounting curiosity. Eyeing the Attuned seriously,  "What did you have to promise? What is Safrin taking in return?"  Because a life preserved meant something else was lost, right?

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