[ He'd given a bite on Miles just to attempt to make his sympathy easier to swallow for you, Byerly, but he has no particular interest in ragging on him. Miles hardly sounds like a kiss-ass, besides. Sounds like the opposite with his officers, really. It's more of just his grandfather, isn't it. ]

I could just as easily pity neither of you. [ There is a bit of irritation, there, a touch of a drawl to his voice, but hearing anything about Sonia has given him a touch of relief. ] Either way, if she'd known, strong as she is -- fast penta in fast penta. Would you rather be there, able to feed us information to help her, or back here with the rest of us sitting on your hands?

[ And before Byerly can answer with something sharp; ] I just know if it were me, I might've not found it in me to face her at all.