Roland's expression falls before he can stop himself, disturbed to learn the whole truth of his first meeting with his wife. So someone else was pulling the strings behind his back, heeding his word that he "must succeed" far too strongly - he'd never meant for anyone to become a victim of his careful planning. Or, perhaps, they were both unwitting pawns in a higher power's game. That remained to be seen, but it was not the focus of their conversation, now. "I'm sorry," he says automatically. He can't help but feel responsible for the situation Riza has found herself in, knowing that such an order could break the spirit of even the most hardened military veteran.

"I'm not humouring you," he adds quickly, not allowing her time to argue with his apology. "I know for a fact that you're telling the truth. But that's not important, yet." It's quite the secret to casually admit, but to elaborate would take them too far away from his point - for now, Roland gently squeezes her hand in his. "I want to make this right, Riza. Whatever that entails." He is surprised when his own words sting him - but he is prepared to let her go, if that is what she wanted. He could help her with the fallout.