[ That is... surprising. Bariyan hadn't been expecting a complete lack of body heat. But he forces his hand to stay, moving away from the ear to hold Koltira's jaw instead. His thumb finds one of the cracks in Koltira's skin. Bariyan sighs, soft and sad. A pity, really. But.... ]

You're still beautiful.

[ He draws in a little closer, bringing his other hand to cup the other side of Koltira's face. He looks at Koltira and begins to speak in earnest. ]

I'm under the impression that this mission is to set things right. So I don't expect to be here much longer. I just wanted to say that I'm glad we met, even if you aren't, which would be understandable -- you don't have to say. [ He smiles, faintly. ] But thank you, anyway.

[ Bariyan leans in, and presses a careful kiss to the corner of Koltira's mouth. It's the best and only apology that he can give.

Then he moves to pull away entirely, to stand, to leave. ]