( It sure is. And yet. Strange treats the topic with the gravity it deserves. It wasn’t handed to me, but wrapped around my throat with the intention of removing my agency, my identity, and my value. He sometimes thinks he sees the flickers and similarities between Kalvad and Thedas, from the little he’s gleaning and feeling out the shape of things. Magic as leash rather than representing freedom, opportunity. )

No, it’s fine, as long as you’re fine discussing it. I appreciate the perspective—

( To better understand how she ticks and why. He’s not had to devote much close thought to Petrana de Cedoux before, apart from thinking of her as extension through Julius, but he considers her now. )

Did you ever have to use combat magic then, or is it that you want nothing more to do with that life? I’m assuming, regardless, that you’ve had your fill of war camps.