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"I'll go back to the Orphanage in a while. I'll give them time to, you know... clean up the mess," the boy said rather casually.

Beth worriedly looked to Cicero and whispered, "He's been here for weeks alone. Perhaps we can-"

"No..." Cicero cut her off rather firmly. The usual humor upon his face was no where to be found. His expression however softened as he drew closer and whispered, "Honorhall would be best instead of Dawnstar, Listener. Come, he needs only more time. Guards will see him back to Riften, to the other children when he is ready to go."

"We'll visit," Beth reluctantly agreed.

"But of course," Cicero reassured as they turned back to Aventus.

The tired boy looked up from the burning candles yet still declared fervently. "When I grow up, I'm gonna be an Assassin, that way I can help lots of children, Just like you!"

Beth forced a small smile and gave him a hug. She was surprised at how tightly he hugged her back. "No rush... now promise me you'll go back soon and stay out of trouble."

"Aw I will," he sighed then wiggled free. He then sat back down next to the effigy, the candles keeping him warm.

Beth shivered as Cicero gently lead her out the door, to fresher air that did not smell of nightshades and decay.

Once outside Cicero from behind wrapped his arms around her when she tried to turn and go back in. Caught in his arms she did not protest or demand to be let go. But by how stiff she remained in them he knew she was not happy about leaving the troubled boy to his own devises. Pulling back a braid to kiss her ear he reminded, "What is life's greatest illusion?"

To which Beth slowly and sadly answered, "Innocence, my Brother."