[ Does he count as a seasoned veteran by now? Something of a depressing thought, even though he'd recently decided to stay here permanently if he can. That decision has implications and repercussions he hasn't totally come to terms with, and Harold isn't rushing himself through those realizations.

He's a little flustered at the implied compliment -- aren't you full of interesting hobbies -- and accordingly becomes a bit stiff in his reply. ]

There's more downtime than you might expect, [ he answers, diplomatic. ] My first mission here was building cars for a road race. It's not all mortal peril and dramatics.