1) Yeah. He does have a positive grounding point for his thoughts now, and I love how it helps him not get too mired in things - because he's always been grim and quiet, as Dan said, but it's nice to see the grimness shaken off now and then.

2) Laurie is a great character when she's not spindled, folded, and mutilated into becoming a typical female lead(ie, The Romantic Interest) like the movie did. Besides, it's way too early in this verse for her to be sick of Jon yet. XD She's so feral, it's wonderful.

3) Thank you. :3