His grin was firm, and released gently. His cheeks heated slightly. "I fear I was less help in that than I might have wished, but there were others, thankfully, far more suited. I have learned, despite my wishes, to stand by and let those who can, do. No matter how it feels."
He had been a warrior for a very long time, and recently, finally, he had begun to be a man, as well. Old lessons were finally penetrating his skull.