[The hum he lets out is disappointed, but not surprised.]

A dead end, perhaps... [He wonders if it might have more to do with the nature of their experiences rather than the time spent, but... such a thing would be notoriously hard to investigate—even if one could trust all of the answers coming from the Chosen.] There are too many variables.

[Departure and return may not be something he can learn much about for now, but it's far from his only concern. He can't help but feel like the sword of Damocles hangs over him, and it's only a matter of time before the hair snaps...

Sitting forward with renewed interest that implies he's about to get to his feet, he continues:]

Perhaps you can direct me towards what you have regarding sentencing? Ah—and I'd like to take you up on that coffee, if the offer hasn't expired.