[ this is fine. quietly, trying not to sound too sad about it, ]

Okay.

[ he can see why that's the case. they're an alliance, and they need to give reasons to maintain that trust. ]

We can't say much because of the rules. It's not safe to tell you until after trial. All I can say is we'll probably do it again. Maybe soon, but... I don't know. Either way, we don't expect you to cover for us.