[Like a soothing balm, Lucius' words provide the sweet benediction Eridanus is searching for. As if a full-bodied sigh had escaped him, Eridanus relaxes and pats those tensing shoulders beneath his hands. The worry that had tightened his visage melts away, and is instead replaced with a wide smile that touched even the wrinkling corners of his eyes.]

You are right... [His tone is soft, sweet even, as the misplaced answers he had sought were so willingly given to him.] I have never committed such a wrongdoing before, and you would think there would be even an ounce of respect for that? This is a misunderstanding... yes... a misunderstanding.

[Eridanus' talons slide away from Lucius' shoulders, and he leans down only briefly to peck at the man's forehead, as if admitting thanks for his guidance to clarity. Whether this was genuine belief, or the final nail in the coffin of his shattered mind, Eridanus is far from caring. What makes that runty tail of his swing back and forth is that he is free from the weight of his sins, if only for a moment.]

She would not allow me my freedom, and that won't do! A collar and leash is necessary for guidance, not control. [He turns away from Lucius, bending at the hip to grab the bottle of coca wine and indulge in its intoxication. He tips the mouth of the bottle to his lips and takes a few deep gulfs before handing it to Lucius,] I need to be free, yes... I need to be allowed to follow these desires, I won't be allowed to ascend without them.