( they’ve come so far as this, and it seems —

well, to quail at elaborating now seems absurd. the matter of fact, academic way that he conducts the conversation helps; compassion is always so discomforting. I appreciate the perspective; it is useful to discuss this. and easier to discuss it, if the point is that it’s useful.

that doesn’t make it any easier to navigate. to put into words things that a few years ago she couldn’t even look at, )

I am intelligent and capable, Docteur, ( she says, finally. ) I have never learned such magic; its use was strictly forbidden to me. I am a diplomat and a politician. I have worked at, specifically, every level of this organisation from the menial to its leadership. I have made worthy accomplishments and I have every reason to believe that I will continue to do so. My work is time consuming and specific and my contributions both to our diplomatic ties and to our ability to safeguard our information have, I’m sure, directly impacted yours.

I do not need to mold myself in the image of my murderer to prove the worth of my work to anyone.