"It is a cowardly thing you do, Nicolas. Do not play your martyr's game by pretending that it is anything else. You were afraid for your toy, but instead of holding your own and facing your demons you have run from them yet again. You are hiding yourself behind the guise of mortality, so you do not have to face what it is that truelly frightened you."

LaCroix shakes his head sadly. He had thought better of Nicolas.

"Live with your decision, if it is what you want, but at least examine your actions for what they really are. Do not insult what I gave you by masking it with your guilt."