The cracks do not entirely heal but there's no reason for them to spread either. But the strain disappears, that thing that makes their body ache slowly ebbs away.

And despite the mixed feelings they have about doing this, despite the fact they feel as if they are betraying their best friend, they allow themselves to give in to that relief. Slowly they move to sit down on the floor and rest their back against the wall.

"Hmm, I am aware of it." There is the smallest hint of a smile on their face. "I owe you my thanks."

Their skin tingles a little while their body gets used to this sort of exchange. It is as if they are able to feel him the way they have always been able to feel others. Cu has become a certain sort of presence. And it is the first time they are able to sense someone like that. And that is what they say.

"I can sense you."