( not a change of mind so much as a specification on what she'd actually been meaning to ask. the second attempt is more precise, and it seems precision is needed in this context. )
A particular human pilot, or just any human pilot?
( it might sound sad, but dutch isn't so sure she wants to ascribe human emotion to something that isn't. maybe it's capable of emotion, maybe it isn't. her tone remains neutral, a little curious at best. ) You're clearly capable of independent action. Could you protect individuals outside your armor?
( dutch isn't thinking of herself, or of anyone in particular — but it's good information to have, and there may well be someone aboard who needs protection. )
no subject
A particular human pilot, or just any human pilot?
( it might sound sad, but dutch isn't so sure she wants to ascribe human emotion to something that isn't. maybe it's capable of emotion, maybe it isn't. her tone remains neutral, a little curious at best. ) You're clearly capable of independent action. Could you protect individuals outside your armor?
( dutch isn't thinking of herself, or of anyone in particular — but it's good information to have, and there may well be someone aboard who needs protection. )