Hesitate? Perhaps not. But maintaining that compassion... that's important. Because one day we will have to stop fighting. War cannot last forever.

[ Dimitri is acutely aware of what happens when one loses one's self. He fears that. Loathes what he was. But he also knows he can't bury that past forever. Even if he wishes it had never happened. The change of subject is probably welcome. He takes a little sip of his drink, looking thoughtful. ]

It's a bit of a relief to be around those we're meant to be allies with. To meet them and speak to them. To find out where we all stand. It's been... pleasant. Yourself?