*Saoirse*
I could see the vulnerability on Rhys' face as he held the staff in front of me.
“Choose," he repeated as I stayed silent.
My rage faded as I looked at how upset he was. I felt myself taking a step closer to him. Instead of reaching for the staff, I reached out to touch his face.
“I love you," I said, my voice cracking slightly, “more than anything."
Rhys sighed and leaned his face into my hand, but I wasn't done talking.
“But I can't just ignore the encroaching threats that need my help," I said slowly. “You realize that if the dragons fall, we will be next. That is why I work so hard to protect them. I can't just give up the staff. It responded to me for a reason, and I will not give up the power that could help us save our people, no matter how uncomfortable it makes me
