[The response is a placid gaze while Lahabrea reacts, first by freezing in place, then with turmoil. Elidibus holds steady throughout, patiently waiting for the flashfire of emotions to subside. It is natural, he concedes, given the man's background, given what he had experienced. The division of his own soul, the reconciliation, the betrayal... Themis understands. He had been there, after all, for the resolution of it all. So he simply awaits with a small smile.

When the other man seems to reach a conclusion, when he speaks his name, Themis dips his head in a nod. He is listening. Then-

-Acceptance. Reciprocation.

Lahabrea returns to his chest, unaware that Elidibus feels as if he were in flight at that very moment, borne aloft by the wings of his transformed self. Reciprocation. What a heady thing, though light in this instance. Not cloying but providing them both with freedom. A freedom that they now have the time to explore, together.

Then comes the embrace, the small squeeze, and he cannot help but grin. He is happy. And amused, at Lahabrea's format words. Lovers they shall be, then.]

Settled, yes. You have made me far more happy than I could have foreseen for this day upon my awakening.

[He gives Hephaistos a squeeze in return, before a yawn comes unbidden to halt what he had been about to say. It seems the activity and his wakefulness had at last caught up to the younger man. His eyes are heavy, but doggedly he presses on.]

Ah, forgive me. It would bring me great joy for our first act together to be one of comfort. Rest with me? We shall not be disturbed.