[ she's not getting it. and a small part of him challenges that statement, because how could she? her most trusted allies told her a story, and lotor was not there to tell his side of it. and there is a lot to say, a lot to explain, to challenge her viewpoint of him, to tell her how he has struggled against the universe for ten thousand years while --

but all of that is pointless, to tell her now, and yet, lotor does not move. ]

I care for you, more than I thought possible.

[ a little more forcefully, than before, and he takes half a step forward. more into her personal space, but not quite close enough to touch her. ]

If I were truly an evil monstrosity, why would I go through the effort? If what your comrades say is true, why would I allow myself the time to garner feelings for you?

[ he hesitates, then, before reaching up to attempt to gently caress her face, to wipe away her tears with a thumb, almost imploringly: ]

I am not a conqueror, or a senseless murderer, Allura. You know that, in your heart. I [ hope ] know you do.