[Nightmares were their own form of harmless and necessary cruelty, if one could forgive the mismatch phrase. There was no true malicious intent behind them, they just were. It would be that way until the lands finally die and there were no more nightmares to be had.

Until the day the Heart stops beating and the Flame finally flickers out, the ash scattering in the wind.

...but it is difficult to think such thoughts when the Knight is pressing a hand against his cheek like they were trying to rub the remaining ash off. After everything that has took place it is...strange. No, not quite that. Not something Grimm was expecting, certainly.

(Welcoming, despite everything.)

His laughter is nowhere close to how it normally is, quiet and tinged with sadness, but it is still in him to laugh.]

...you are a strange person, my friend. No matter what ill will is forced upon you, you find forgiveness for the burdens pushed on your shoulders. Strange yet so incredibly strong.

[Grimm looks down at the Vessel, reaching up to touch their hand pressed against his face.]

But it still is my fault that this was visited upon you. I should have listened to myself and remembered. Both our hatred...and our love.