[She's startled by his smile, an apology ready to go on the tip of her tongue. Most people don't take kindly to being nearly set on fire after all. And she's too used to strict adherence to rules and regulations, and punishments for poor behavior rather than rewards for good behavior.

This difference is strange, but not unwelcome.

One hand lifts, fingers settling to rest idly at her chin.]

Mostly psychological, I'd say. There's a sort of—a release, I suppose, of all the energy I've built up.

What's it like for you?

[Her eyes linger still on the branch, still smoking slightly.]