"I hope you don't think too poorly of me after it's over," she admitted, resting her chin thoughtfully atop her knuckles. "But perhaps you're right. If people are still willing to accept you, even after seeing you at your worst, why, there must be something liberating about that." It reminded her a little of the people of Baticul, rushing to her aid even after she'd told them that she wasn't truly descended from the royal bloodline. They'd still loved her anyway, and refused to back down. If this situation was the same, then he might be right...it could be good for her to know she had the strength, support, and faith of her friends to keep her going in the dark days to come.

Natalia chuckled at his response. "My, I didn't mean to imply that you were simple-minded in any fashion. Just that you have a gift for seeing the best in people, and giving them the benefit of the doubt without hesitation. I think it's rather admirable."