Until I met you, the path was ever clear.

I left the mountains to find purpose, and in time, Hydaelyn laid bare my path--in step with my noble friends, the Scions. Though sometimes we erred in judgement, our purpose remained a straight road.

The world we wanted was worth fighting for. There was no risk in waiting. We stood only to lose if we did not act. Even when it cost some of us everything, we knew it worth everything. Because if we did not push forward, it would all end.

So we found the courage to press on. We had no other choice.

But then we came to the First. And we met you.

I thought you would be like the rest...

And then you saved her. And it seemed to me almost like you cared, despite your quips about proving yourself trustworthy.

So much happened after that. You taught us things you did not need us to know. You did it because you wanted us to know. And when you spoke of what you had lost, the sadness in your eyes was something you didn't care to hide.

It haunted me.

I have looked into the eyes of voidsent and seen wicked intent. I have weathered the burning gazes of hateful dragons and ardent primals. I have seen my fears reflected in the soulless lenses of technological terrors. I have seen the mindless madness of selfish traitors, heartless murderers, and self-styled gods. I have returned the singular tenacity in the stare of those empty blue eyes from that one who existed only to struggle and kill.

When I remember these moments, I do not remember doubt. Overcoming each foe, however painful, was something I fully believed was right.

You were different. For once, I could not fight without doubt. Once I understood what you lost and why you fought, how could I? Who would not hesitate before bearing the terrible burden of taking away your last hope?

That doubt ate at me. The light itself may have been too much to bear, but I wonder how much of the burden was compounded by the weight I felt in being the one who would end all your triumphs, all your hopes... All your despair.

In hindsight, I know there was no other way. I respected that about you. You made your choice. We made ours. Our dreams could not both come to pass. Someone's time had to end.

You were so burdened by your countless eons. That memory of your friend told me as much, but he only confirmed what I already felt.

Maybe that's why I felt like you smiled at the end: because you knew you could rest at last, freed of an unimaginable burden. We had proven to be your equals at last, just after you had given up hope in us.

And what you asked me to do... Well, that's why I'm writing this. I haven't forgotten. If there's any memory I need to preserve, it is the one I promised you I would remember.

I remember that you lived.

-Relia

(Scarf of Wondrous Wit, should I be so fortunate.)