[Near could press the issue. He could ask for L not to feel guilty. Tell him there's nothing he could have done. But he doesn't know that. He doesn't know anything about this situation. He doesn't want to cause his bonded later grief over anything that occurs in this dream, even if it's possible that the man won't recall it later.

But this is a delicate subject, and Near is not a delicate person - at least outside of what he lacks physically.]

It's hard to say now. I would tell you if I knew. If I remembered.

[The naga keeps close tabs on L's appearance, watching his breathing and his pallor. At some point he will have to take action. Perhaps he should be doing it already. But he wants to hold out for the very small chance that the man won't become a shade.

He'll give it only a little longer.]

I will ask for something else, then. Since you've given me permission. I want you to relax and take careful breaths.