...I don't presume to know him, Ryn. Nor am I bold enough to claim I could ever understand how it was on the field of battle that day.

[He moves a half-step closer, still keeping his distance, but gravitating into his orbit.]

But I do know what it is, to have someone you love look you in the eyes and still choose sacrifice. I objected. I bargained. I begged. And she told me...

[He swallows.]

She told me, "It is not your decision to make." And neither was Aren's yours. It isn't fair. But it was his choice.