She was a reminder, of sorts. It burned Noel up sometimes. Fully, he was an embarrassment, a failure, and he really did deserve that. Empress wasn't any of those things. She was kind, and articulate, and strong, in spite of her introversion, but above all of that, a protector.
"It must be difficult, sometimes," Noel said to her, "But you're doing the right thing by so many people. Women, specifically, I suppose, and I think that makes it better. Goodness knows I couldn't ever do the same as you, as much as I try." Sometimes, though he tried his best not to, he knew that he frightened the girl he lived with. He had half the mind to direct Empress to her, but was certain that wouldn't be a welcome development.
"It's just noble." he concluded in a softer voice, nearly silent, "All I can do is pray that compassion doesn't fade."
once more an infant follow-upypupup
For a moment, Noel was quiet. Redemption was worthless to him. Seeking it was even more worthless. "Some men cannot be redeemed." he uttered, finally, after his long silence, "I've killed women and children, and I've driven apart families, and I've destroyed homes and precious land. What good will come out of forgiveness?" He didn't even consider his relationship with his niece -- his daughter -- to be redemption. She had nothing to do with that violence.
Noel's eyes were cold. He stared down at Valnier, lost in thought, before wincing as the other's hand fell upon his shoulder. He gently swept it away. "It was not once before. It was so many times before." he pointed out, "Churches and temples will not save the cruel from decay. Nothing will. The perfect path is one away from all this bloodshed."
It was perfect for her.