[ it isn't even close to the first time she's had to graciously "forgive" someone for something like this – though it's almost unheard of for her to actually receive an apology at all, in those situations – and so the words come easily to her, Ruby strangling her true feelings with her own hands before they can brush up against the Communion. all that remains is her usual air of anxiety and something soft, placid, docile. ]

I think it was incredibly difficult for all of us down there. And you were trying to protect your home.

[ As if any of that is my fault. ]

I was very afraid, of course, but... I don't blame you for what happened.