That’s the thing about all-out war, [Demeisen agrees, musing as they continue their walk along the moonlit avenue.] Once all the pieces are out and have started smashifying each other, it’s difficult to put everything back in the box.

[Inherently messy thing, warfare. Messy, violent—and wasteful, as conflict resolution methods go. One reason most polite, enlightened civilizations past a certain point try to avoid having them.

But of course, even the well-meaning end up feeling like they need to dirty their hands sometimes.]

Definitely wouldn’t want to rush into declaring for one side or the other. [He glances at Matt again; grins.] Otherwise, you might do something you’ll regret.