I've killed since then and would do so again if it meant that the people I love would be safe, I have a feeling you can relate to that. It's an uphill battle every day but, even when I'm alone, I'm not. No matter how long it takes, if we can be forgiven, isn't it worth trying? [ Even he isn't sure he'll be granted that, but he's traveled down the road this far, why would he stop now? ]

I don't know, Loki. You wouldn't be the first person to approach me with a friendly face to earn my trust before sticking a knife in my back. [ He hesitates. ] But no, I don't think that's what you're doing. You would have put a dagger in my back at the diner when you had the chance. He would if he's too good for this world, as many are.

One of them didn't know what I was before last night, I never let them in because of what could happen. Just as letting people in is new for you, it's new for me too. I guess I got so used to running that the idea that I might find people I care about never crossed my mind. Wouldn't you do anything to keep your family safe? Even if it's protecting them from yourself. [ But, as he's probably asking for a reason, he elaborates further. ] They accepted me and my sins knowing that doing so could end in tragedy.

Most of them are strangers, I don't understand it but I'm grateful. I think I'd be concerned if you didn't have a temper.

[ He shakes his head and, after roughly thirty seconds, pushes himself back up to his feet. ] I'm fine, wounds heal. Anyway, I think going back in there right now would be an even greater challenge, I tricked him into letting me walk away when I heard footsteps. Might be a good idea to take a day to recover before I walk back onto that battlefield.

He's really going to let me have it. [ Judging by the smile? He's okay with that. ]