Aww. *hug*

Yes, it's always struck me that Nikolai, in the film, had to essentially bury himself [whatever that true self was] beneath the persona he created, and that would make him isolated. I imagine he would take steps to find the smallest vestiges of himself here and there. And the dream is kind of that ultimate manifestation of longing.

Thank you for the beautiful feedback. *kiss on both cheeks, Russian style*