[ It's a simple thing, in the end. Some almost silly realisation that makes them relax, that makes them finally, finally accept that kindness.
They have always fought for other people; they have worked and struggled and toiled for a kingdom that forgot them, that never realized their existence. Even here, they have always been more concerned about other people's happiness than their own.
What...were they even trying to live up to?
To be something that was entirely unlike their father? Still defining themselves by him, even though he was long gone? To be good, to prove that they didn't deserve to be discarded, to prove that their flaws were never flaws at all? To avenge their siblings, to avenge everyone who died for a king who never cared?
(A child bound by invisible chains.)
They've done all of that, and more. They've exceeded their purpose and the past, gone far past the point where their purpose really mattered. Aren't they done? Isn't it enough?
They are a kind child, and they will always push themselves to help others, but...
Maybe they're allowed to ask for help.
Instead of answering properly, they break that contact with Grimm in order to curl up in his lap instead. It's happened once before, they remember, when they were sick; the only time they've ever been sick. A steady heartbeat and a warmth that doesn't fade, not even in their dreams.
The words are slow to come, and it's awkward to see them from where they are. But they don't want to give up that comfort.
They think that they'd like to be selfish, just this once. ]
Did I do well?
[ It's such a childish question. But
well, they've never gotten to be a child, either. So maybe...this once...it's fine. It's okay. ]
[The Knight's kindness, their strength of heart in the face of those who denied a Vessel possessed one, was beautiful.
Their journey to the Radiance and the heart of the infection was harsh, something no child should have endured alone. The loss and regaining of their memories meant they lost their siblings again. Consumed by light, by the unfilled regrets that were bone deep in the land of Hallownest.
(Dark regrets that could not be forgotten, crying out for release. They breed nightmares and kindle the flames of what must be done.
"Shadows dream of endless fire.")
Now it was time for the Knight's own regrets to be addressed, their shade tended to. They will likely never put their nail down. As Grimm would never stop his Ritual so his child will grow, the Knight would keep fighting for those who they love.
But what Grimm could do, what others will do, is be a support in return. The Knight would protect someone with their blade and in turn they will have a place to come home to and people to hold them. Their regrets will no longer be a noose around their neck.
(The Nightmare King dies with his vessel so they would not die alone.)
The least Grimm can do is make sure the Knight is not alone with their nightmares if they were not something he could take.
The Troupe Master's heartbeat is endless as is his warmth. He has often thought of the irony of someone seeking comfort from the God of Nightmares but that matters not. He reaches around the Knight to cover them with some of his cloak. Within the folds is the sound of the Grimmchild's quiet breathing as they sleep within Grimm's heart.]
My friend, you have done wonderfully. The journey you have taken was beautiful and you saw it to the bitter end. Hallownest and I will never forget what you have done. Thank you for everything you have given.
[A heart of Void, a heart filled with darkness and kindness. A heart made of scar tissue but continued to go on despite the pain.
A path of pain was their's to walk. But now they will no longer walk alone.]
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no subject
They have always fought for other people; they have worked and struggled and toiled for a kingdom that forgot them, that never realized their existence. Even here, they have always been more concerned about other people's happiness than their own.
What...were they even trying to live up to?
To be something that was entirely unlike their father? Still defining themselves by him, even though he was long gone? To be good, to prove that they didn't deserve to be discarded, to prove that their flaws were never flaws at all? To avenge their siblings, to avenge everyone who died for a king who never cared?
(A child bound by invisible chains.)
They've done all of that, and more. They've exceeded their purpose and the past, gone far past the point where their purpose really mattered. Aren't they done? Isn't it enough?
They are a kind child, and they will always push themselves to help others, but...
Maybe they're allowed to ask for help.
Instead of answering properly, they break that contact with Grimm in order to curl up in his lap instead. It's happened once before, they remember, when they were sick; the only time they've ever been sick. A steady heartbeat and a warmth that doesn't fade, not even in their dreams.
The words are slow to come, and it's awkward to see them from where they are. But they don't want to give up that comfort.
They think that they'd like to be selfish, just this once. ]
Did I do well?
[ It's such a childish question. But
well, they've never gotten to be a child, either. So maybe...this once...it's fine. It's okay. ]
no subject
Their journey to the Radiance and the heart of the infection was harsh, something no child should have endured alone. The loss and regaining of their memories meant they lost their siblings again. Consumed by light, by the unfilled regrets that were bone deep in the land of Hallownest.
(Dark regrets that could not be forgotten, crying out for release. They breed nightmares and kindle the flames of what must be done.
"Shadows dream of endless fire.")
Now it was time for the Knight's own regrets to be addressed, their shade tended to. They will likely never put their nail down. As Grimm would never stop his Ritual so his child will grow, the Knight would keep fighting for those who they love.
But what Grimm could do, what others will do, is be a support in return. The Knight would protect someone with their blade and in turn they will have a place to come home to and people to hold them. Their regrets will no longer be a noose around their neck.
(The Nightmare King dies with his vessel so they would not die alone.)
The least Grimm can do is make sure the Knight is not alone with their nightmares if they were not something he could take.
The Troupe Master's heartbeat is endless as is his warmth. He has often thought of the irony of someone seeking comfort from the God of Nightmares but that matters not. He reaches around the Knight to cover them with some of his cloak. Within the folds is the sound of the Grimmchild's quiet breathing as they sleep within Grimm's heart.]
My friend, you have done wonderfully. The journey you have taken was beautiful and you saw it to the bitter end. Hallownest and I will never forget what you have done. Thank you for everything you have given.
[A heart of Void, a heart filled with darkness and kindness. A heart made of scar tissue but continued to go on despite the pain.
A path of pain was their's to walk. But now they will no longer walk alone.]