"Yes." He had, in fact, put it off for the longest time and chosen to recover as naturally as possible post-battle. "And no, you can't." It's spoken softly and lacking any admonishment; a simple fact.

He sits up properly then, face very pale and serious as he looks at his friend. "I know my ability bothers people. Even other xenians. But in a way I was --I believe my intelligence and my mutation are linked. One was preparing me for the manifestation of the other. And even then, I was seven when I became aware of my telepathy. And I've gotten used to it. Telling me not to use it is like telling you not to use your elbow joints. You can, but it's difficult, and you'll always remember just how easy everything was when you could."

His gaze drops for a moment. "And in combination with that, you have this place."