[Whether it is meant to convey a message or not, Neuvillette straightens as Aether takes his hands. This...has never happened before. A Melusine has held his hand from time to time, but the intent behind it isn't about assuaging his worries.

With Aether, it is.

In some ways, he does not understand, even now. Unmasked confusion overtakes the fierceness in his eyes.]

I would like that very much. It is why I invited you here, although...I would never presume to lay yet another obligation upon your shoulders. What you have already done for Fontaine is more than enough.

[Days ago, in the immediate aftermath of everything - and, truly, it is both a small and a large matter - a letter soliciting Aether's opinion seemed rather prudent. Now it rings of selfishness. Of uncertainty, on Neuvillette's part. Yet he was certain when he penned it that it was a good decision.

Change, it seems, is difficult even for dragon sovereigns.]