[smiling softly, Melqal takes a step forward with Morax, careful not to rush him. his arm is still wrapped around his waist and his hand still cradling his tail, not wanting to let go of the appendage just yet. it provides a sort of comfort to him, like a security blanket, and he didn't realise just how much he missed it, and Morax himself, until they were reunited once more.

but it truly isn't fair to Dohalim himself, either. to feel like he should be pushed aside for their sake, because he thinks he is undeserving of something like this... Melqal huffs softly to himself. he glances at the other, as he takes another careful step forward. hopefully he can backtrack to the entrance...]

Morax... Would you show the same kindness towards Dohalim as you would to me?

[there's a slight plea in his voice, a near desperation to keep his descendant present. he was the one who invaded, after all. in good conscience, he can't allow himself to take over, and he can't allow Dohalim to think of himself as nothing but a vessel for his consciousness]

Would you be able to provide that warmth? Would you be able to show him that there is at least someone who cares about him?

[that's the problem. Dohalim has admirers, in Menancia. how could he not, when he's such a compassionate lord? he's revered by all in the realm because of what he was able to do for them, but... reverence cannot replace a deeper connection, one that he so sorely lacks. Melqal knows the compassion Dohalim is capable of giving to close companions, but how can he, when he doesn't know how to show it, nor does he have anyone to attempt to show it to?]

I do not want to lose him. Not because we share the same body and mind, but he deserves much more than he thinks.