Catulus listens soberly as first Galla, then Sthenae, converse.  Neither elicits humor from him.  Outrage or joy seem out of the question.  He would seem a statue, but for the profound investment his eyes shine on Galla.  Their sadness and redoubtable hope leave no doubt of his humanity.<br/><br/>When Sthenae talks of 'honor,' he nods.  Otherwise, he simply looks at Galla in patient expectation.<br/><br/>Mention of Leo breaks the tension of the room, as Marissa scoffs a laugh.  Leo does not turn from arranging his cooking station; his broad, hairy back blushes for him.<br/><br/>Catulus speaks up then.  "You were chosen, Galla, on very good authority.  She said your spirit was unquenchable and your heart was dedicated to wanting to strive for a greater purpose."<br/><br/>Lowering his tone to a grave scrape, he adds, "And yes, she said you would be injured in spirit, and acting out of desperation rather than out of conviction.  But I will not allow you to lie to yourself in my presence.  You know as well as I do that you neither choose death nor do you only live for yourself.  You say that because what you lived for, you lost.<br/><br/>"I believe," he sets his jaw hard.  "That you will find something to live for here that you have been searching for all your life.  For now, though, your pride demands you be dragged toward it."<br/><br/>Catulus' flinty eyes flash to Sthenae.  "Sthenae, do be a dear and persuade her to be calmer.  Then you can see to her feeding and ... whatever other measures you think would help her come around."