That yields a doubtful look: Bastien willingly working alongside mages, especially before now?
...maybe.

But he lets the subject drop for now, with an odd little snort through his nose at Isaac's observation. Winners, certainly.

"Staying alive is its own victory," he agrees, dry but cautiously sincere. One doesn't go through a journey like his and not learn to count his lucky stars.
"How many Circles did you attend?"