I've- tended to keep my distance, since then. Better that way. I'm used to it.

[easier that way. if he just doesn't get close to people, it won't hurt. if he has a safe amount of emotional distance from them, then they can leave or die, and it won't ruin his life again.

it is lonely. he's lonely. but... it was better not to risk that.

for several long moments, rynlan stays silent.]

...you know how much longer my lifespan is than yours.