She notices the shift. It is one things she's good at, on the spot and when she's paying attention. Body-language. And this, at least, is familiar. Victors have it. Sometimes, old sailors, too. When the kids gather 'round and want to ask about old, terrible storms. Being caught out in hurricanes far, far out in the ocean. But mostly victors.

Annie doesn't say sorry, not verbally anyway. Instead, she apologizes with her expression and hopes it's enough given how Beverly is trying to control her own.

"I see," is what she says, softly, glancing down at the staff she's still holding in front of her thighs. "That, uh. Makes sense. You don't freeze."

There's bitterness in her tone, and she hurries to cover it with a question.

"Starfleet's allowed, then. Is, are, civilians? Or is it illegal?"

Beverly did just offer, but while she doesn't really think it's a trap, she does wonder if she'll have to pretend she doesn't know.