"Mmm. No. I think not." Eve's eyes were narrowed, and she looked at the elf, who was looking back and forth between the two of them in confused desire, but not wanting to interrupt. "I have been where she is for time that I<em>cannot</em>measure. I felt the tree I was part of growing, its sap quickening each year, but I could not tell how many times it occurred. More than five, that much I know. But I know how hard it is, and I won't leave behind one in her state. Nor shall you, if you want any cooperation from me. And if you cannot handle that, I will simply go down a path separate from yours the moment you fall asleep. Now, choose whom you shall obey. Your<em>duty</em>, or<em>me.</em>"