[ Although his own nerves are still so very rattled and he finds himself quite unsettled and even more uncertain about how to move forward from all of this, he finds himself far more worried about Alkaid and her own well-being. Being present while this all unfolded cannot have been easy, and in his mind, it is plain to see that she still is wrestling with her own fears and worries.

It seems far more important for him to put aside that which troubles him so that he might better help her with whatever it is that she needs. ]

I would not have asked you to do such a deed, nor will I ever, should it be needed. [ He hopes that it will not, but he imagines he is not immune to being tempered a second time, however frightening he finds that thought. ] To do so would be quite unfair to you, and very cruel besides.

[ Should he pass for any reason, he would like to have her with him, but he certainly would not ask her to end his life. ]

I would sooner remove myself from all company and find a way to bring about such an end on my own, if it were at all possible. But I am certain that is hardly a comfort to you, and again I must apologize.

[ She has turned her head away from him, but he finds himself seeking to meet her gaze and to reach out to her that he might offer a loving kiss, should she be willing to accept it. ]