Ky briefly considers asking Potemkin to clarify, but hesitates. Would that be pushing the man too far? He's sure Potemkin is full of thought, just as Ky is, but he can't help wondering about what. The urge to ask is great. When he was younger he would've done so without hesitation. But age has (thankfully) tempered that somewhat. Instead, he files the reaction away in his mind, taking note to keep track of it for the future. If it turns out to be the cause of any misunderstandings, he'll promptly work to correct it.

"There's no need to thank me," he says, "but you're welcome."

He gestures, holding his hand out as if he were offering peace. "Come, let us continue walking together."