[ What morals and expectations he had prior were all based off that anger, that consuming desire to protect those he holds dear. Father had ensured they were safe, they were taken care of for such a small 'penance'. Loyalty. They all had to work to keep their family close and trusting.

Lyney swallows all his pain. The shame of the things he's had to do, the broken promises lessened with "it's okay" from his siblings – misjudgments based on hope, brashness, and love.

It landed him tranq'd on the floor, after all. ]

I haven't been a boy in a long time. [ Unsaid: his siblings were not children either. He finishes half the tea and sets it forward. ] Everything leading up to this prophecy was delicate. A tightrope to walk and one inch off, everything would be ruined. There was no room for safety nets.

[ It takes a lot to be this transparent and he clicks his tongue to his teeth. ]

I made a vow to Lynette I'd never allow another person to treat her like property, like a lion caged in some circus.