Alain had to think for a moment, even having touched on such a revelation. There were times, he thought, when killing a gunslinger was no less necessary than killing an innocent. If it meant that the children would live, that his vow would stand...

...It wouldn't. In his heart, he knew that. He let out a long sigh, and, with an arm that felt heavier than lead, tossed the mask back to Altair.

"I'm keeping the gun," he said, firmly. "I've wanted a better weapon than knives every moment of the last Arena I was in, and I won't give it up now. But I've no wish to kill you. Give me your word that you won't follow me back to my camp, though, for I cannot speak to Roland's views on the matter."