He's unsure if Jeff's quip is sarcasm or a genuine attempt to put the Darkling's mind at ease, and he's struck once more with the fact that he has absolutely no idea what to fully think of the man. He's as cheery as Ravkan maiden, as irreverent as a Kerch sailor. And, as the other continues, there it is, that small thread presenting itself, waiting for the Darkling to unfurl a little more.

He's unsure if he's heard Jeff speak without an element of lightness to him. The Darkling looks at him, truly observing him for what he feels like the first time.

"Not magic. Science," he corrects gently, but continues speaking in case the other wants clarification. His eyes seem to glint in the dark, bottomless pools intently fixated on Jeff. The mirrors are but an afterthought at the moment.

"In your experience, Mr. Calhoun?"