Returning to the world of the living after so much time...it’s jarring beyond belief.

It seems one of his siblings has awoken as well...

Up he goes— Ninazu’s lifted him. “I’m sorry I was held up so long below the earth.”

“Everything was fine. It became a bit crowded, and I was needed to watch children as my mother handled things.” He nuzzles his face in the top of Shanyuan’s head. “I missed you. Every single night.”

“Indeed. They are safe, but their souls become lonely when there is no one to tend to them during busy times.” He looks visibly relaxed, now. “I hope I haven’t returned during a busy time for you. I wouldn’t want to be too much of a distraction...”

“I did indeed. They were interested in meeting you here on the surface someday, but now is not a good time.” That drew a smile from him. “I just want to spend time at your side, I suppose. Without impeding things.”

“I am sure they will. They kept remarking that I’d actually started smiling.” He flushes a bit remembering that- he must have been unconsciously doing it. “...I am so lucky.”

That earns a flush from the deity- his smiles are small but sincere in nature. “I am honored to hear it.”

The less human appearance fades away slowly, and his face looks softer overall as well. “I feel the same about you. I feel comfortable learning about this world at your side.”

It’s sort of funny watching him lean into his instincts, he’s scenting Shanyuan by rubbing against him. “....It really is good to be back.” He frowns a little. “I don’t think I could ever show you where I come from. It’s...grim. I’m sorry.”

He pales a little when he thinks for a moment, holding him a little tired. “I would fear you wouldn’t survive the trip down, to be frank.” He doesn’t mean to scare Shanyuan, but...mortals alive in Irkalla? It was unheard of.

“Another dim night. I suppose I should check if he’s alive if the moon is so dull...”

I hate to ask, but.... ....Was it.....?

...Have you taken the medicine? The suppressors.

Urgh....When he has those....

Su’en...You are like a younger brother to me. I worry. Take the surpressor please.

His parents raised him to be collected and calm, but the ache of that week nearly broke him. He can’t understand what makes this status ‘better’ than others in the slightest.

I cannot force you, but try to think of your safety.

“—!” Covers his nose.

As much as he doesn’t want it to be /that/ time, for Shanyuan’s sake.... He’s getting the headaches indicating it will be soon.