[ He listens quietly, taking in everything she says. And while there are certainly details he can't picture in vivid detail, it's not at all difficult for him to understand the general picture.

Humans really are the same across all worlds, aren't they?

A prickle of sympathy works through his chest when he watches the way she averts her gaze for a moment, when he notices the clenched fist. They're quiet signs of hurt and frustration, and Vangeance only nods in understanding at first, after she's done. He takes a moment to gather his thoughts before answering quietly. ]

You have every right to reject my proposition.

[ Vangeance dips his gaze aside, looking at his little sapling as he continues gently. ]

I wouldn't presume to fully understand your circumstances. But ... [ His cadence remains steady, but his voice lowers just a touch into something more solemn. ] ... back in my homeland, someone very dear to me was terribly hurt by humans. Human history has been exceedingly cruel to his kind, yet most of us remain ignorant of it. So ... if you'd hesitate to trust me with something so important to you, and to your people, I understand.

[ Vangeance looks back to her, maintaining steady eye contact before he nods to reaffirm his words. ]

I've no intention of forcing the matter. And I promise you I won't act without your approval.