[ Carver is so reserved and unforthcoming himself, but he always says just enough to compel the other person to keep the conversation going. Harold thinks of Detective Carter, another military interrogator, and is momentarily struck with an older loss. These pangs keep hitting him out of the blue, some softer, some harsher --

Which he supposes is Carver's point. He decides not to point out that this is some very astute back-talk, lest he scares him off from speaking further. ]

You're right, [ he admits, staring down into his tea, tracing one finger along the rim of the mug. ] I've always been the sort to... quietly implode.

[ A pause as he runs through what possible options he has to let off steam. ]

Would you like to go bird watching with me? There must be birds in Etraya. [ Also, if he takes Carver with him, John can perhaps suppress the need to stalk him to ensure his safety out in the wilderness. ]