[More idealism. At least, that's what sentiments like "Suffering can end" sounds like to Jade. Hopeless dreams that sound nice in theory, but never work in practice.]

Blazes. You and Dimitri really are from the same world, aren't you?

[He had touted similar words. Nonsense, as far as Jade is concerned, but far be it from her to dash on someone's desires to make the world a better place. It's an admirable goal, truly. Even if she didn't believe in it.

[After a moment, she closes her eyes, letting out a long exhale as her grip tightens around the neck of the bottle.]

Idealism doesn't stop plagues, or persuade fanatics from crucifying those that they perceive different from them. You can fight and claw and scream and scrape, but in the end, there's always gonna be some asshole who wants to be on top. I don't believe in gods or paradise. Heck, I'm starting to think even free will itself is something of a joke.

[Her fingers flex. The more she talked, the louder her voice, half-yelling in frustration and anger. But when she speaks again, her words are quiet, as the Boy from Silvergrove flashes in her head again. Not the idealized version of himself that he dreamt up with his wishes, but his true self, twisted and curled up in agony. Sad. Pathetic. Painful.] That kid didn't deserve to suffer. He didn't deserve to die like that just because he wasn't born "normal" like his rich snob of a father wanted. I can't even... I didn't even...

[Another drink.

(Just don't you fucking cry.)

[And the bottle is empty.]