[ He waits, listens, and considers Malkuth's apology. It isn't something that he had expected to hear today — it's a relief to think that she has changed her mind. This isn't the place to explain his point of view to Malkuth in full, the extent of his misgivings regarding taking matters into one's hands alone or insisting on uncompromising precautions, and it would most likely be interpreted as a lecture, but he wonders what led to Malkuth's decision.

Ultimately, he is the last person who could fault Malkuth for wanting to keep her distance, be it for his sake and Netzach's or her own. ]

You're aware that I disagreed with your measures... although I understood the rationale. Even so, I believe that your approach has been kinder than mine ever was. To us, that is, not to yourself.

[ Here and there, Malkuth has still allowed both him and Netzach to see what could be, granted the freedom, and conveyed her thinking of them. Her note comes to mind, and so does her carved gift. Her inviting his opinion and encouraging leaving the past behind, expressing themselves. That day in March spent away from the base. Even Malkuth taking him to the greenhouse when he arrived. ]

...If we are friends, what would you like to do now, Malkuth?