[...Of course the knights would slander her. Of course they'd see Amber trying her best despite her nigh-insurmountable struggles and would choose not to extend compassion to her, but to judge instead. Diluc exhales harshly through his nose, but the ones he points his judgment at aren't here, can't feel his scornful gaze bore into theirs. To that end, there's no point in stewing in frustration.

All he can control is the here and now, though Diluc thinks his options for doing anything meaningful on this island are effectively none... rather, he had. Gazing down at Amber, he realizes there may be something worthwhile he can do during his time here after all, lifting his hand to bite off his glove and thumb away her tears. His hands are heavily scarred and calloused, but so it goes when you heft around a Big Damn Sword.]

And they may never show you the respect you are owed, but you're the stronger person for rising above their taunts and jeers. Unfortunately, the Ordo Favonious has a ways to go before the roots of corruption have been unearthed and cut away, but it's people like you who stand the best chance of ushering in reform.

[Which is to say he doesn't blame her for staying. What's more, he believes people like Amber are necessary to bring pride and honor back to the Knights.]

...Amber, let's continue our conversation elsewhere. My home is a much more comfortable venue for conversation than the mountains.