(as it stands, they're the only two who can truly understand what the other has gone through, years lost and family lost. maybe this is how things were meant to be, for nahyuta and apollo to ease each other's sufferings, lift their burdens even if just a little.

he couldn't be there for nahyuta while his family was being torn apart, but he will be now. for as long as nahyuta needs apollo in his life, he'll stay. there's a quick twinge in his heart, nothing more than an effect of the liquid, but it makes him hold nahyuta just a little closer for a moment.) I hope so... I really hope so, too.

(would dhurke be proud of him? for taking over the office, rebuilding the legal system of his father's home? he knows dhurke would much rather be the one doing it, but would he accept apollo as the one to save khura'in? he'll never know. he can only continue on this path hoping it's one dhurke would approve of.

nahyuta's request is, at the same time, one he expected and didn't. don't blame yourself... easy words to say, as apollo's face contorts into pain once more, hunching tense and eyes narrowed in guilt. it's far easier said than done.) I... I don't know if it's the stuff, or just leftover from after the trial, but... I'm gonna feel that way for a while. I don't know if it'll ever go away, but I'll try not to.

(his gaze makes its way back up to nahyuta, staring straight on with a strong plea behind his eyes. his voice isn't as shaky anymore, firm, more set in his conviction to help his brother.) I want the same thing of you, okay? It wasn't your fault. None of it.