Nick stared blankly at Silvanus's flushed face. He pressed his lips tightly together, then parted them again, his mouth moving as if he wanted to say something, but in the end, no words came out.
Because before he could even speak, Silvanus's toe struck his knee.
Silvanus lifted his chin, the corners of his lips curving slightly upward as he leisurely said while nudging Nick's knee, "Kneel."
The force behind it was clearly minimal, yet Nick found himself almost frozen in place, unable to move. He met Silvanus's gaze, as if they were locked in a struggle. In reality, he was steadily laying down his arms.
In the end, beneath Silvanus's half-smiling gaze, Nick truly knelt.
[...]
[No saving him now.]
[Throw him back into the furnace and remake him. At least put up a little resistance!]
[Come on, you're all underestimating Nick. This is the guy who would admit he's a dog if Silvanus told him he was one.]
[The price was too great. I'm actually crying.]
