        “It is not a decision I would make lightly,” she continued softly, “nor is it a decision I might not later regret.”  She sighed.  “You are young.  You have not seen what I have seen, and I pray that you never will.  Nopony should have to make the decision whether one lives or dies, yet sometimes we have no say in the matter.  Sometimes circumstances are what they are; sometimes negotiations fail.  Perhaps you should ask Rainbow Dash about the true meaning of loyalty.  Better yet, ask Applejack if she had to choose between you or her sister whom she would pick.”  The diarch chuckled darkly.  “She can’t easily lie, after all.”