[ though outwardly calm even under the renewed touch, his thoughts storm on the peripherals of his mind. there's so much he feels he has to know but his pathways are limited as he is, suddenly hyperaware of his own heartbeat, the blood in his veins. not to mention —

is this what a maternal touch is like? ]

...indeed. [ if he's lucky... ] I believe I'd be a stronger asset to a faction with my combat gear reinstated.

[ if he has powers, he keeps that to himself. ]

But it's as you said. It seems loyalty must be proven first to reduce the chances of rebellion and collateral.