[At Ashelia's declaration, Ramza drew one of his swords out of his scabbard. He did not anticipate this standoff ending any way other than confrontation.]

It matters not how noble of an end you seek, if you harm innocent lives to bring it about. If you continue, I will stand against you.

[He takes on a defensive stance. There is still a vague hope Snow can be talked out of the ritual, he supposes, but Ramza has learned to rely on his instincts, rather than on chance.]