"Don't underestimate me Ered. I learned a long time ago how to strip away emotions. I had to, after I lost Arthur the first time. I know the rest of the dragons were distracted by other things. But I... I..."

Jonh's shoulders dropped. He looked his infinite years for a moment, looking so weary, so exhausted.

"I... I hate that I can't protect him. I hate that I must send all of them into war."