[He feels their weight, heavy as an iron hammer, ringing out judgement. He does not argue, he only listens, nodding where it felt appropriate to do so.

The idea that he might not return is painful. That he cannot confide it in anyone is common sense.]

... I cannot wait here, from the moment you leave? Or only if you do not return?

If I had my team, I would send one of them with you.

They do not fight for others, only their trainers, normally, but for you.... I'm sure at least some of them would.

[They may only be words, but there is a certain gravitas to them too, he hoped would be meaningful.]