[Estinien glances to the side, though he snorts when Sam mentions Himeka being in the kitchen. Himeka is more adaptable than him, he thinks. She can enjoy himself with the opportunity presents itself - a concept which feels far away from him at the moment.]

If that the High Mage has said is true... then returning home may do little good, without first resolving affairs here.

[As much as he hates having been called here at such a terrible time, what good would it do to return and solve the problems at home, only to have the multiverse be torn apart by the actions of those who remain in Abraxas? He wishes he could know for certain that it's worth it.]

If Himeka and I are truly the only Scions present... 'twould fall to us to protect the others from the threats they cannot reach.

[That's the thing, ultimately. Estinien can't let go, not like this. He can't just decide it's not his business, that there are no good options, that there's nothing worth fighting for. He has to make a choice, to make a difference, on behalf of his allies that can't.

Remaining idle seems like it would be the greatest betrayal of all.]