"Hilda does have a certain... influence on people, I must admit." He had recalled her insistence of being a 'dainty,' overworked maiden. In the same breath, she'd practically taken Dimitri with a swift throw of a short axe. He wanted to believe that the woman was holding out come what may; even if she did fall, she was certainly someone important enough to be brought to this simulation of theirs.

When Marianne mentions him seeming brighter, that almost confirms it for him. She must be from a timeline where he... It was difficult to think about, in away, what had become of him. While he can't say that fate wasn't deserved, well- It's strange to imagine what his fate was to be without Byleth by his side.

"Yes, I... I imagine the last time that you saw me, I was not in the best frame of mind." That's one way of putting it. "But I assure you, I have found myself back on the correct path and towards being a king my people will be proud of. I am glad as well that you get to see this version of me, if nothing else."