However much she might have wanted to look away, Tear was successful in being able to at least look at him in the face the entire time. Seeing his expression go through the motions of each feeling was painful, but it was the least she owed him, especially when there was still more to tell.

"It was." There was no point in disputing the observation when it was entirely true. The knowledge they had received enlightened them to how hopeless the situation was, and as time passed it only became more so with the continued growth of the calamity. "Several months after the incident in the laboratory, those who still wanted to find another way took it upon themselves to hide the crystallised bodies at an undisclosed location."

Except the way he had phrased his last statement didn't quite sit well with her. It had certainly been her intention, the responsibility she shouldered so certain others wouldn't have to, but the truth was that she may as well have given up upon accepting it, or so she thought now. Tear knew she had thought somewhat differently in the future.

"I was part of the squad tasked with retrieving the bodies once we discovered the location, through any means necessary. Before that, I worked for others who were more proactive about fulfilling our goals."

And then, despite herself, she smiled. Small and bitter, reflecting her own disappointment and remorse.

"Nearly a year had passed since we spoke with the Sage, when I made that decision. That was as long as I could hold on to the hope of another solution before I became tired with sitting back and finding nothing."