[ ah.

qifrey rises to his feet. he walks over to her. bends down on his knees and oh so gently takes her hand into his own.

it's warm. and that's his answer. ]

I think the world we have only exists when the people we love are in it. And I think it's a heavy burden to love all of humanity. That is a directive that is cruel as much as it is necessary.

[ he could never be one of the wise in friendship, the pinnacle of witch society. he cares, oh he cares, but that circle is small and protected. and those he could care less about . . . they will rue the day they cross paths with him.

qifrey places his hand on top of hers. ]

I see someone who is committed. Who was made to be. Clear as day.

But I also see a young girl trying not to cry over the loss of someone dear. Who cannot reconcile these two parts of herself and doesn't know how.

If I can see both, I'm sure, someday, others will too. They will understand. You just have to keep trying.

[ he squeezes her hand. ]

Be brave. Be brave and cry. I'm here.