[ He clenches his fists, holding her gaze a few moments longer before he finds his eyes sliding away. It isn't that he wants to trample over their hard-fought right to freedom, he argues with himself. And he feels no pleasure in what he's done. It had simply been...necessary. One last vain attempt to salvage his failure. For the revival of their god. Yes, for Zodiark...

... ]

I-- [ He cuts himself off, crosses his arms tightly over his chest. His voice is similarly taut, tongue working against all the lies and half-truths he wishes he can speak. ] Do you think I want to see any of you die? I have seen it happen so many countless times before and every single time--

[ There's a sharp, twisting pain in his chest and his temple throbs. The internal conflict is tearing through his head. ]

Stay, [ he grits out through his teeth. ] Just stay with me. I care not if you hate me for it. There is nothing for me to sabotage here. No schemes to enact. Have I not been a good little Ascian during my time here thus far?