[Dion had a lover. That, too, is on Clive's mind, but he has no idea if Dion told Joshua in confidence. Clive won't potentially betray their trust with each other when it isn't absolutely necessary. If Dion wants him to know, then he'll say it. But for now, Clive just nods and rests his hands on his hips, a small smile teasing at his lips.]

You have learned that not only is he optimistic, but persistent, as well.

[Clive exhales before moving on, a little more serious.]

I will tell you what I told Joshua. You have already made up your mind and even if I wanted to put my foot down, it would be a useless endeavour. But I don't want to do that. My brother's happiness is a precious thing that I do not intend to snuff out. Do I wish it were guaranteed? Of course. But even as his Shield, I cannot feasibly protect him from every single thing. I shouldn't, otherwise he will never be able to live, for good or ill.

[That's a hard pill to swallow. It still feels a little wrong to let Joshua make decisions that could lead to heartbreak. But keeping him sheltered forever would be something their Mother would have done and Clive knows for certain that that is the worst option.]