"I do not know," Athos admits, somewhat rough. He has heard their opinions and knows it will not be easy to tell them that he wishes to try once more with Anne, but he does not think they will understand the severity of a bond made between husband and wife; especially when it is as tumultuous as theirs.

"I believe d'Artagnan may understand," he says calmly. "Aramis and Porthos may be harder to convince. They saw me at my worst, after all."