[Schooled in propriety as Dion is, the urge to roll his eyes is barely more than a pinprick. Already, a picture of the man before him has begun to paint itself. So far, it doesn't look so good.]

Is this how all folk of this town are? Warm and concerned for thy neighbor?

[It's a near foreign concept for Joshua. Save for the Rosfields and those associated with them, very few in the Twins have felt any inkling of concern for those around them. Sanbreque was the prime example of that.

When he speaks, his voice seems to have at least lost its critical edge.]

You need not worry for me. Long have I shouldered these burdens. I am well acclimated to their weight.