[ she's shaking as he settles next to her, and at the question, she has to press both hands over her mouth to suppress the sob. tears blur her vision, and she squeezes her eyes shut to hide them. she can feel his pain through their bond, and she hates, has always hated when he hurts like this. ]

I could not-- [ her voice is small and muffled and heartbroken. ] I could not let you, brother. [ she finally glances up at him once more, lashes still faintly damp, breath hitching quietly. ] You would not stop. I begged you, but you were beyond listening even to me.

[ she glances away once more, shoulders curling in, small and vulnerable and frightened. ]

.. So much darkness had grown within your heart.