Zavien
Happiness is a choice that requires effort at times
He couldn't guess at what Soh was thinking, about whether his words had helped alleviate any guilt she may feel or if they'd only made things worse. Yet he wouldn't take back anything hed said. She needed to know that she'd been a good leader, and Zavien refused to start his own journey with any lies or withheld information, even if it might complicate the conversation.
The brief flare of surprise didn't offend him - he was still wondering if he'd actually suggested it - but her agreement did, his hand coming up to run through his hair, disguising the slight blush that attempted to undermine his mature determination. "I - thank you." He offered a smile in return, feeling uncertain of the sincerity of her words - on whether she found peace with the decision. "I'm not sure I 'want' to, but I want you to be happy and I want Stormbreak to succeed, and if that means stepping in, I'll happily do so."
His smile shifted to something gentle and serious, doing his best to be supportive of whatever the outcome. "But I don't want you to make the decision just because I said something. This has to be your choice, Soh." Even if Safrin had ordered him to take command, Zavien wouldn't compromise the loyalty he held for his friends, he would never be able to live with himself.
The brief flare of surprise didn't offend him - he was still wondering if he'd actually suggested it - but her agreement did, his hand coming up to run through his hair, disguising the slight blush that attempted to undermine his mature determination. "I - thank you." He offered a smile in return, feeling uncertain of the sincerity of her words - on whether she found peace with the decision. "I'm not sure I 'want' to, but I want you to be happy and I want Stormbreak to succeed, and if that means stepping in, I'll happily do so."
His smile shifted to something gentle and serious, doing his best to be supportive of whatever the outcome. "But I don't want you to make the decision just because I said something. This has to be your choice, Soh." Even if Safrin had ordered him to take command, Zavien wouldn't compromise the loyalty he held for his friends, he would never be able to live with himself.
