"At least he was willing to listen to reason," and Sparhawk is mildly surprised at that. Where Martel is concerned, most of his world seems to be irrational in one way or the other.

The hesitation is let slide, Sparhawk notices, but doesn't want to, or can't be bothered, to push. Let Martel have secrets, everyone does.

"We're doing well then, since we've not reached that stage yet," his tone seems proud of that fact. Yay for self-control.

"Candice?"