[ If will can allow it, then will can force it. Of this, Maruki is certain. Any efforts in the past lacked what he knows he and a select few others are capable of if their will is focused, honed, sharpened, weaponized. The creature born from his soul is proof enough.

That said – it's nothing he didn't know already. Noted anyway and moved past with kind efficiency. ]

Hah! Thank you for respecting the confidentiality of my patients – that's not always a given with folks here.

[ The Duck. ]

It's true that I spend most of my time speaking to people in my capacity as a counselor, but I've been lucky enough to develop some relationships outside of that. I do think that in the end, it will be the strength of our bonds that help us to break free of this reality.

[ And then he rests his chin on his palm and asks a genuinely curious question: ]

Who would you say that you're closest to in Somnius, Loki-san?