Just as he had tried to help her years ago when her anger took hold, Acere tried to aid Bellamy now. She felt him move close, and despite the angelic form he had now she could feel the sensation of his shoulder touching hers. It was not the same as it would have been were he living, but there was still sustenance to it in this place. Bellamy shivered, partly from the cool touch, but she welcomed the comfort her friend gave her. He would speak, and Bellamy’s ears would fall. “Even if his spirit one day comes here, Acere, he will not remember me. Not as we were. His memories, his past life, were wiped clean to give him a second chance.” Her words were quiet, surprisingly so. “...but… he won’t remember that harsh end, nor any of the suffering he dealt with in that life either. So… I’m glad he won’t be hurting anymore, even if I haven’t really come to grips with his passing yet. It… It doesn’t feel real.” The woman turned her gaze to Acere.
“But there is comfort, knowing you are still here. Meeting you gave me new hope for what comes after. I’ve never been one to consider death an option, but it is no longer daunting when you have loved ones waiting for you.” She lowered her gaze. “...and, as for Ignis… I pray it never comes to one of us taking the life of the other. I’m guarded around him, and distrustful, but perhaps because I see so much of my younger self in him. Struggle, on the hellbent path of a monster I felt I’d been turned into.” Bellamy closed her eyes. “I think that’s why we clash so much. Fire and ice, two harsh elements… We don't mix well, but we understand the path the other has walked. I know taking his life would pain you, especially if he didn’t come here.” Bellamy lifted her gaze back to the Northern king.
“I won’t deny I am grateful he had not harmed Saga… but I do worry if that will change now that they are aging. I want to protect my family, but…” Bellamy’s shook her head. “We intend to go after the murderer tomorrow, to bring Gavroche justice and ensure the safety of those who remain.” She would sigh, leaning into him. “...I… I’m sure I’ll come back here before long, Ace… please promise me you’ll be here when I do.” She moved a paw over his own. “...It’s hard, being the oldest one now… I have my children, but they are all so young compared to me.” And time was cruel. The next time she came here, would she even be alive…?
"Speech," 'Thought.'
Berserker
