[byleth catches and keeps claude's gaze, now, feeling raw and open but soothed by his words, his kindness.]

I won't allow their reality to become ours. If even one timeline can stop Edelgard's advance - then all of our efforts will have been for something. All those lives lost - they will rest knowing that we have brought real peace.

[he squeezes back.]

Thank you, my friend. There may be many Byleth Eisners out there, but know that this Byleth will always choose to fight for the Fodlan you envision.