That answer gets Naeris to pause and reflect not just on Velo's words, but also on the events that led up until now. Suddenly, it all makes sense: the timing, the emotion, all of it. She didn't blame Velo for feeling uneasy back then--everyone is entitled to their feelings, no matter what the cause, after all--but that only goes double now.

Envisioning Githal taking care of the Archive... seeing his goofy smile perfectly mirrored on a face that was a carbon copy of his, but lacking that unique spirit behind it, sends a pang straight through her heart.

"I see why that's difficult for you," Naeris starts, fiddling with her thumbs, "It's a lot to be reminded of all at once."