Found:
I managed to have a good chat with Millie away from the others for a while. She opens up a bit when you have her alone, preferring to observe for the most part when in groups, it seems. I find that the more I speak with her, the more I value her insight. She has a quick mind, a studious nature. She was in agreement with Atharann, after I told her of that issue, and offered to aid me in my endeavor by doing some research. I've no idea what she hopes to find; such things are not generally written down. Nevertheless, I appreciate the sentiment.
She had a few observations to voice concerning the others. None of it bad and, insofar as I can tell, none of it inaccurate either. She's one to watch, I think.
Cwenawynn joined us briefly. A little more talkative than I usually see her, but then truth be told I've barely seen her at all! She is not one that, thus far, I've had much opportunity to speak with. I do detect a hint of humour in her, though, if of a more genteel manner than my own. Low bar really, isn't it?
I took the opportunity to speak further with 'Dara about what she'd done. Poor thing. She looked scared for a moment there, as if she thought me about to punch her for it. Prior ill-treatment, I wonder? Or am I just a little scary when being stern? It's a big change, I suppose; she's only ever seen me laughing and joking. Still, I may have to enquire at some point.
Between what she saw, and what I had to say, I think she may be suitably wary about venturing into such places again, but neither one of us is daft enough to think that the need may never arise. As such, I offered to teach her what I can about dealing with it. Of course, there's much that I can't teach her. Some of my defences are in-built and specific to me, and some are built around techniques that I sincerely doubt she has the mind for. Still, there is at least one method that may serve her well. I'll start there when time allows.
Otherwise, our conversation was pleasant enough. There were hugs. I like hugs. I did get the feeling that she was delicately trying to dig deeper into certain matters at one point, but I know that she already knows, so perhaps it was just my usual prudence at work. Some days it's hard to tell where my distrust ends and cause begins.
As for our glorious leader, I still need to speak with him. He's been rather busy, however, running about and organising things, people, looking for leads. He doesn't stop. For that reason, I've been hesitant to approach. With so much for him to contend with already, I think it best to wait, allow the man space to breathe.
I don't believe for a moment that my recent distance has had anything to do with it. The man is on a mission and I know that drive all too well. Focus on the job in front of you. Complete the task in hand regardless of what else is happening around you. This is something that he's been putting off for a while and now that it's underway, it needs to be completed. I'll talk to him when opportunity presents, of course. There are a few things that need to be said at this point, but it can wait.
For his sake, it needs to.
