"Everything was a test because of what you are. You are a Royal of War, and I would prefer you to deal with hardship early so you won't later. You are stronger for it, strong enough to survive when I'm gone. And... I will be gone. That is inevitable. I am your aunt's shield, and I will fall before she does. When that happens, you need to be strong enough on your own. And you are." He simply held her, trying to calm her down. "Romule had more freedom with you than I ever had. But, like I said, I have never not been proud of you."
His voice went a little quieter. "I thought you knew." He sounded more like he was blaming himself for everything.
His voice went a little quieter. "I thought you knew." He sounded more like he was blaming himself for everything.
