Yes, he believes Kirkwall can recover, that all of them can get through this terrible disaster that had begun well before the explosion. He doesn't know if he'll live long enough to see it through or how many years true recovery will take. He has doubts that he'll be in charge much longer regardless. The Chantry won't stay silent forever. He nods, his expression pensive but not doubtful.

The expression shifts a little more wry. "It does trouble me. I'm sorry, Altus Pavus, but you're going to have to wrap your head around the fact, somehow, that you've earned a place in my regard, and I happen to be quite protective of those whom I value, whether they need it or not." His look challenges him to gainsay him in that.