[ laughing doesn't come easy to makima, mostly because she finds no reason to really laugh unless something was truly funny. she could name a few things . . . but amiability was still more than enough to offer in a new world she too had to establish herself in. she did not rise to the pinnacle of public safety in a night— it took effort, and building trust.

she has already accepted that she could not form relationships with these people. she could, however, make sure they have water, shelter, that they're fed— and well cared for. her fondness, at least, still shines through genuinely, and her perfectly fixed smile remains. ]

They're in jugs just out of your sight— you'd need to turn the corner ahead to see them in a boxed bain marie, on your left.

[ she taps the tip of her nose to add: ]

I also have a good nose.