[ For once, Holland can sense the conviction in Kell's words. The pain of a choice made from desperation—a choice he needed to make, not just one made in want, or out of convenience. It may have actually given him a bit more respect, if he'd had the guts to actually stick to it. ]

Just admit you did it to save yourself.

[ Holland smiles. Not an ounce of joy permeates from the slight crease in his lip, but there's something in his green eye that almost, almost looks accepting. ]

"Antari aren't easy to kill," isn't that right? There's a reason for that.

[ And this time Holland reaches for Kell's hand, the one that held the stone, the one he so often uses to command his magic. He grips him by the wrist and squeezes. Let this be a lesson to him. Let his words sear into his mind. ]

You can't hesitate when you try to kill someone, otherwise I'm what happens.