He studied the worm as she spoke, a part of him still searching for falsehood, any reason to dismiss her potential as family. He found none, even then. The feelings that swirled inside began to seem monotonous, dull. The Juggernaut grew numb.

The way its offer was refused made it feel like it'd harmed them further by asking. Poking, prodding; All too early. It was not equipped for this task, and it wondered why Mother had chosen it, and not one of the many other siblings better suited -

And then they were gone, their namesake pulling them into chrysalis. Silence fell upon them. Perhaps this was a blessing. This way they both could recover. And maybe, in the space he'd been given, Juggernaut could prepare for the next conversation. Any attempt would feel meaningless still - Where would he even start?

"Rest well, Zoey." He rose to begin the long walk home.