There's a slight clinking of stone on ceramic as George readjusts his grip on his cup so he won't break it as his fingers tighten. Silently reminding himself that he signed up for this, and that Dimitri clearly needs it.

"Anyone would be better off having never seen the other side of the Hedge. And if you mean if you hadn't survived, then you may not have the physical markers, but I'd say the sentiment places you firmly amongst the Lost regardless."

He smiles, tight and forced, but sympathetic. There's a way he gets through this conversation offering nothing but a friendly ear and knowing comfort.
It's a tempting path to tread.
It's also a lie.
Even if it's only by omission, that won't make it any better if and when it comes out later. If it comes from someone else.

"I don't want to detract from what you've been through, I cannot imagine what it would be like to not only go through hell but to see people you are close to at the worst point of their lives while you're there. But I need make it clear up front that I am not well liked amongst my fellow alumni, and for good reason. I am not going to describe my deeds unless you ask me to, and even then I may not. Suffice it to say that I was the Butler there for a long time, with all that entailed."