[ Lacus doesn't need Merlin to believe her. More than an attempt to convince him, this may have been a declaration of intent. To him, and to everyone else in the garden who might be inclined to side with her point of view.

But that last comment makes her expression turn a bit melancholy. ]

My blade is already stained. In this world so marred by bloodshed and revenge, even the idealistic choice may cost a large number of lives. I've been aware of that for a long time, now.