[Eventually, he will. When it all stops feeling conditional, and when Dion is finally able to get through to himself that suffering wasn't the only way forward, only then would he come around. It's still a long way off, but maybe not nearly as far as it could be, were he going it alone.]

I will have to adjust to fighting without the rest of my abilities. [Thankfully, he doesn't sound too bothered by that. In fact:] It will be a good excuse to put my skills as a dragoon to the test. Long has it been since I relied solely on those.

[The smile he offers Clive is small but... he's trying.]

I thank you for the offer. And... [He pauses for a moment.] For how hard you and your brother have already worked for me. I do not yet feel that I am deserving, but I do appreciate it nonetheless.