"I know you're not, and I would never think of you or anyone as a project. That's not why I spoke out." He bowed his head, thinking for a moment. How to explain. "I said what I said, however badly, and you promised to think on it. I can ask no more than that. At the same time, I can't stand by and see someone in pain and not try and help. I simply can't, any more than I could fly or cease to breath or, or see. And you are in pain, Jaina, even if you don't, or won't, see it."

Karal drew in a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "But I won't lecture you, I won't try and take you to task, and I won't accuse you. I will listen - just listen - if you ever want to talk, I will offer whatever support to you that I can, and I will give you whatever help you will accept."