[ It certainly is true that he does not smile or laugh often. There has not been very much for him to laugh at of late. Before all of this began, he had already thought to himself that she was his reason for smiling, because she brought joy to his life that had long been absent. And part of him still cannot believe how everything turned out, that the war that dragged on for so long is finally over.

Of course, these thoughts have retreated to the back of his mind following his tempering and being cured, but one thing remains clear: she brings him more happiness than he ever thought he could have or find. And even though he still has much to contend with, all he wants to do is help her the way she has him.

His heart sinks when he sees her mantle break before his eyes. And when she begins to cry, hiding her face in her hands, he is quick to wrap his arms around her, pulling her closer and pressing her frame against his. One hand moves to the back of her head where it begins lightly stroking her hair. ]

I am right here, and I will not be leaving you for anything on this star. [ He realizes now that so much has happened that could have separated them: the knife wound he took in the streets, any number of events during the war, and now his being tempered... But they have weathered all of it somehow, and they are still together. He does not intend to lose her now, not even to the tangles of her own mind and heart. ]

Whatever you need from me, I shall give it, even if it is only holding you when you feel as though you cannot go on.

[ He would give her what strength he has, because he cannot imagine a life without her in it. ]