[ It's difficult to untangle the question and the compliment, the gentle arch of brows and upward curve at the corners of faintly pressed lips comingling somethings akin to surprise and sympathy. She's watching him, eyes fixed and keen but without the sharpened edge she tends to wield around the war room table (and occasionally the peace room sitting area). A searching sort of gaze, rather than one priming to pounce. ]

Were you tempted to do otherwise? [ Mild, curious. ] Or having been given a second chance at life, did you feel obliged to spend it on our efforts?