Such careful scrutiny yields a mild response, but one that presents in two facets. The first is that of understanding, of the intimate knowledge of giving oneself up in sacrifice. He knows not Gethen's reasons, but such things will always ring familiar unless told otherwise. The second facet is that of respect. Having one's will stripped is agony, but knowingly going into such a thing is an entirely different level of torment. That whatever happens afterwards was ultimately chosen, in the end, regardless of what one was made to do.

"I am glad to hear that your actions bore fruit. We are of the same mind with regards to the experience, unfortunate it is that we share such a thing."

He waits a moment. Here, now, another bit of common ground.

"My situation, too, was voluntary. I would chose it again in an instant, should I be thrust back in time, knowing what is to come. For those I loved."