"..."

An ache went through his chest cavity, sharp and painful, and the tinny sound that left his throat was... comparable to a hitch in his throat.

He didn't want to do this to Arven.

They had to do this to save everyone, and to give Arven a chance to escape and live.

"... I know it's not my place to say this. But you are..."

An awkward pause, as he tried to get his voice box to work-- turning to face the young man. Sparkling energy seemed to leak from his eyes.

"...Truly the greatest treasure I could have ever hoped for, in my time here."