Page 305 of Reaper Said Mine

Also true.

"The Alliance has factions too."

Unfortunately true.

Her voice softens.

"Most people just want their families alive."

The room goes quiet because everyone knows that's true.

I look back toward the viewport. Fleets, weapons, years of hatred, graves, losses, and rage fill my thoughts.

Part of me still wants revenge.

Maybe that part always will.

But another part remembers Bravax, casualty reports, children in shelters, Ursa's distress signal, and holding her after believing I might lose her forever.

The future suddenly narrows until all I can see are people trying to survive.

Ursa is watching me.

She doesn't push. She simply waits and trusts me to decide.

I exhale slowly.

"I hate this idea."

Ursa smiles faintly.

"I know."

"It offends me spiritually."

"I know."

"I would rather wrestle an asteroid."

Skahar nods.

"Reasonable."

I point at both of them.

"You are terrible."

"Also reasonable," Skahar says.

I look back at the map, the evidence, the war, and the uncertain future. Then I look at Ursa.

She crossed half the galaxy carrying truth through gunfire because she believed there was another path.

Maybe there is.

Maybe not.

But I owe my people more than hatred.