[ and with those words comes another wound, the depth of which he cannot imagine basch could have truly anticipated. but couldn't he...? no; no. this is neither the time nor place for bitterness, not if he wants to make good on his efforts to be a better man. and really, if he can't do even that much...

still, his immediate reaction is beyond his control: his brow knits, and his breath comes in a sharp inhale, suspended for maybe a moment too long as he finds the words for his reply. ]

I must ask your forgiveness, for I cannot believe this to be so... After all, I have been most reliably informed that Judge Gabranth remains ever steadfast at the Lord Emperor's side.

[ a small smile comes to his lips as he speaks, but it doesn't reach his eyes, does naught to ease the crinkle in his brow. ]

But know, too, that I... That I would have it no other way.

[ if all is well, then all is as it should be. he should be happy then, should he not? shouldn't he? ]