Now Lan Wangji does, again, hold Magnus to him with slightly greater force. He could modulate himself, could keep his strength further at bay, but it doesn't seem necessary. What Magnus describes is an undue burden to put on a child, particularly one as sensitive and kind-hearted as Magnus. He lifts a hand back to Magnus' head, just cradling it for a moment before he resumes stroking his hair, working out its tangles.

If what Magnus says is truly foretold, Lan Wangji cannot stop it for him. He would like to. He is no longer so interested in these visitor's passes. He would like to storm his way into Valhalla regardless and demand that whatever powers govern Magnus' world release him. But he has not even managed to leave this tiny world. And he is not a god after all.

All he can offer, then, his voice still steady, is, "So be it. Then you will not be alone when it comes time to face it."