[there is a pause - and then the anger sets in, cool and slow and encroaching until it lights every nerve in her body. it seeps through her attempts at calm, overtakes everything else she could possibly feel.

when she speaks, her voice is soft at first:] Oh. I see. You seek to lecture me, as if you are my teacher. How quaint.

It's interesting. You fall on your sword, and make yourself a public enemy, even knowing all who have shed tears for you. You apologize for hurting me, and then say you will only hurt me again, and again, and again because that is more merciful than allowing me to save even one person in my care. You will not allow others the chance of the same action you are taking yourself.

What an interesting person you are, to have a complex that makes you so certain you get to decide who lives and dies.

I had not thought to criticize or condescend you on your choices until now, Byleth. At least pay me enough respect to do the same.