Azem was under the impression it only hurt if done wrong or with someone the person already has a connection with. So this was likely to hurt, though they hoped it could be as painless as possible. It's only him that needs to break the bond and reform it, so they were hopeful it would go smoothly.

They smile up at him when he finally agrees and follows suit by pressing their hand over his heart in return.

They had decided that despite how much they love their friends, those that are like family to them, Etheirys as a whole was far more important. Without their star, they would not have those friends, their life, their loves, heartaches, and all else that comes with living. While they might not hold their star in the same regard as their mentor, they still regard it highly.

"Etheirys." And with that, the bond is formed. Azem notes that it immediately feels different from forming it with strangers though they're not sure they could put it into words.