Nathan's smile matched Cordelia's, not from knowing what to recognize as good from bad as far as the PTB, but from simply watching and listening to Peter. His brother could naturally argue an 'emotional' argument and appeal to the right aspect, but this argument was truly impressive because it argued for the mission in terms that these beings required and left no doubt in an 'emotional being' that the argument was also grounded in feeling. It was a winning combination and Nathan felt certain it would get results.
And then the being spoke, and rather than react with outward surprise - or any surprise at all - Nathan felt only the press of intense frustration, for he knew what the being meant. Mantis had told him as much, both directly and indirectly. Nathan simply hadn't wanted to listen. Unable to stop himself, he stepped forward.
"What if Mantis changes his mind? No choice with us is an absolute, not everything is set in stone. What if he changes his mind and wants to live?"