[ eula's not wrong, for better or for worse. barton doesn't care much for the idea of rank here equating to skill (illumina does it better, always), but it would be something he'd have to consider should the time arrive. even if, observing his coworkers, so many fail to reach his absurd expectations — ]

[ he meets her gaze levelly. his stern expression softens to a smile; as his shoulders begin to tremble, he fails to hold back a low bout of laughter. ]

Ha ha ha! You think you wouldn't be among the first I'd ask...? [ he responds with a crooked, if still lighthearted, smile. but she does look quite serious, so he can at least answer with earnestness. ] If I have any say in the matter, of course I'd want you to come with me.