"You're not the first to accuse me of that," he says, making no move to follow as he turns his gaze back to the stars and has a look around for whichever spot needs targeting next.

"But so far, here, it's served us well. I'd rather err on the side of too kind over too cruel, if it's going to be one or the other."

It's never so black and white, and he's done his share of unkindnesses anyway. But here, people take him for some kind of gentle optimist, and if that's how they see him it doesn't do any of them any harm. It's a useful way to be perceived when you do truly want everyone to work together - or at least listen when you ask them to do so.

"Have a good night, Ephrim."