( He lets Syrlya have his moment, and he does not regard it with judgment. It's not a sentiment he doesn't understand, in some smaller way; the idea that he failed Adelis, failed to save him, weighs on him.

He can't imagine what it must be like for someone who cared about a great many more people, and took a great amount of responsibility for some greater number of duties. Even worse if you're loathe to disappoint another. It all sounds exhausting.

He considers this. )

... Still, you are your failures as much as your successes. Certainly, his view of you is rosy; and, certainly, he may be disappointed if he acknowledges your missteps.

( Trahearne's love is heavy, and maybe too blinding. He does wonder if Trahearne can look Syrlya level and recognize his failures, and find them endearing all the same. It would require recognizing Syrlya has failed, though, which seems particularly challenging. )

But if he cares for you as nobly as he claims, he ought gladly consume these parts of you, too. You can only ever be yourself, and that is whom he should love.

( It is, of course, putting it to the test that's the nerve-wracking part. )