[There will be plenty of time to let one's guard down when they are not under threat from an assaulting force.]

Sometimes wariness and readiness are all we can do, Sonia.

[He notices the change in her tone. Be it genuine or feigned, he is grateful she is attempting to move on from her momentary despair.]

I took some damage in the battle with the Deemers, but it is nothing that will not mend itself. How have you been?