There's no way to press a kiss to the top of Benedict's head the way he wants to. What does he have to say that could make a difference now? Encouraging resentment against the person who put him in this situation won't help him go into the next world with peace. Or will it?

It's the first time in many years Colin has considered praying. Except he wants to pray that the Maker is real and merciful, and he's not sure to whom he should direct that prayer. He wants to go to the Maker and ask what He is, and tell him he's no good to anyone if he sends people into oblivion based on a technicality of borders and stupid mistakes, rather than important things like being evil. He'd trade a lot if he could just put his arms around Benedict properly for the next few hours.