"Now I seem to have upset you," mused the Tranquil, taking in his companion's outburst thoughtfully. "Please allow me to explain."
Constans gave his words careful consideration, trying his best to make Ashya understand. "As I said, each of the conditions you have suggested as precursors for Tranquility does not necessarily preclude the others. I was very frightened, Ashya. This I remember clearly." He shifted slightly in his seat, his memories of that part of his life always so strange. He had never forgotten a moment over the years, yet the man he had been remained impenetrable, his thoughts alien and chaotic. Although he could scarcely make excuses for that other Constans, he soldiered on, explaining as best he could under the circumstances.
"I feared that I would not be permitted to undergo my Harrowing. I was twenty-three years old, and a gifted student, yet my peers had all gone on to be tested and I remained."