it's a long way home

"My ghoulish screams would make a difference from the complaining at least," Ronin said, attempting a wry smile that faded as he spotted the claws, the snarling frustration, the realisation that as hard as this was on him, it was just as hard on Remi if not moreso. Once he was gone, at least he was gone; the aftermath didn't have to fall upon his shoulders. As the alchemist turned into his embrace, Ronin let his arms fold around Remi to hold him tightly, injury be damned. He would sit if they both did, but in that moment it was enough just to have the other man close, Ronin letting the fingers of his good hand tease and wind through Remi's curls. "No," he agreed solemnly, tilting his head to rest it against the other man's, relishing his warmth, his heartbeat pulsing against his finger. "No, this is not how this ends. We've a lot more to do together, you and I." Stepping back just enough that he could tilt Remi's chin up to meet his eyes, Ronin flashed him a roguishly charming smile through the marks of blight and weariness. "I love you," he said. "Now and always. Whatever happens, okay?" RONIN Darkness is a funny thing. It creeps up on you.