[It took quite a bit to raise Cecil's ire. Having a woman who knew nothing of his struggle, though, who didn't appreciate his fully kind and responsible attempt to face her and give her the opportunity to name the punishment she wanted him to have... Well.

He'd been hated before. Even after atoning for his original sins, there were places he knew would never welcome him; having a drink at the bar in the wizard village Mysidia, for example, would be forever out of the question. But even the most vulgar, hateful grudge-holders in his homeland stopped short of questioning his manhood. Cecil had quite an appropriate set of male appendages, thankyouverymuch. They were a little bit sore at the moment, but present nonetheless.]

Now see here. [He rose, eyes focused upon her dismissive back.] Perhaps Milady mistakes good manners for passivity. I will admit that introspection resembles laziness and inaction. I respect your opinion. However, to call it childish that I would approach you and welcome the punishment you would deem appropriate, to suggest that I can know how to mend the harm I've brought to you without your input.. [He trailed off, unaccustomed to being this vocal with his negativity.] If you choose not to forgive me, I cannot help that. It is regretful, but I understand. But there is nothing inherently spineless in repentance. If your heart is too hardened to understand this, then it is you I pity.