Having finally set the words free, Shift patiently watched Lucas as he recoiled in surprise, even though inside he eagerly awaited the answer. For a moment, the surprise seemed so great that Shift wondered if they'd have to trade places - his fellow survivor looking petrified. But as a wide smile spread across Lucas's face, beaming at the prospect and speaking his heart, Shift felt a surge of joy. It'd been a long time since someone inspired that feeling, and he wanted to enjoy it for as long as he could. Giving back a wide smile, eyes closed as he spoke, Shift's tone was unusually heartfelt. "Thank you," he breathed out, clearly convinced the pleasure was his own.<br/><br/>And just like that, the strings finally cut loose, granting his descent into a welcoming darkness. He'd spoken of overcoming their current crisis, but given the field day his emotions were having, and the mess his body was in, there was nothing else he could do. Now bearing his full weight on Lucas, and simply causing him more trouble, the smiling warrior slept soundly, already dreaming of what the future might bring. Yet unknown to Shift, one more oddity took place that night. One that he'd never recall. Before everything hit him in a flash, his body claiming its rest, tears began falling from his left eye. A subtle stream that hinted at something far below the surface. If only one could see it.