The lesson is hard to learn. Dimitri doesn't suspect it's fully sunk in yet, because even he still feels the struggle against it sometimes. But is that not the way of mortality? To want the impossible, to desire greater than you can achieve?
"I am Dimitri," and he gives no title or surname. His name will work. "I will teach you what I can of the ways of the Otherworld, but you must return to me in spring. It's too cold now to collect the tools you might need, and my supply will not be enough to sustain a learning Seer." He glances down at the skull. "I started weathering this Speaker too late. The bugs are asleep. Its flesh still clings, with the mortal thoughts in-tact. It will not speak for me." It could go missing and he would not miss it overmuch.
"And it's important you collect your own bones and herbs. You will have a spiritual connection to everything you use. It is important you make sure that it's all your own."
Rejoice despite the fact this world will kill you
Rejoice despite the fact this world will tear you to shreds
Rejoice because you’re trying your best