[ At her outburst, something inside him recoils, although his expression remains as impassive as ever. It is something he has learned to do, both to protect himself and to keep others from assuming the worst about him. But inwardly, something inside him seems to bleed: not only for himself, but now for her and her sister.

Long as he thought that too much has been asked and required of them, and he has seen the proof of the wounds they have taken. The longer she speaks, he finds himself shaking his head with each word. ]

YYou are strong. You and your sister both are the strongest individuals that I know. After all, you carry so much... so much that we have unfairly placed upon you, and still you keep pressing forward. Yes, you press forward as well, Lantaa. You are every bit the Warrior of Light, and you are-

[ His voice falters as his emotions begin to spiral slightly out of his control, threatening to shatter the impassive expression he customarily wears. ]

I will not, no matter what reprisals may come my way. [ Their hands are already tightly clasped, but he curls his fingers further around hers as if to emphasize that he will not be letting her go, nor will he allow anyone to take her from him. ]

If I must speak to the Scions on your behalf and inform them that you will be staying, then I will.