"Oh, I -- I'm glad that it's had that effect on him," she says with a surprised smile. She knew that Viatorus was excited about the research center, but it feels almost like an honor that the topic draws him out of his own thoughts. She can only imagine how difficult that can be otherwise.

It is her turn to be earnest when she leans in and adds seriously, "This has given me something to look forward to, as well. Things are looking up, where I'm from, but that hasn't always been the case. It's nice to have a goal for the Nexus, too."