<LI>
::he waited patiently, his expression fading slightly into a warm mildness while he waited for Val to speak. and then Val stopped playing with his glass and looked up at him. and spoke::

::something about Val's expression, or perhaps the delivery of his words combined with his tone and expression made Li pause. his face went still while he processed that unidentifiable element that startled him somewhat::

...So we did. ::he answered agreeably after a few measured moments::

::but since that didn't feel like enough to say, he added:: But if you're suggesting we locate some sparklers and screamers and set them off inside, I'm afraid I simply must protest. ::and he smiled again. this time with a protective layer of frost::