[ The mask is harder than it looks, but Lelouch's head jerks to the side regardless, and he can definitely feel a bruise forming on his jaw. Still, he remains calm, even if he's simmering inside from the blow. ]

Gawain is best suited for a supportive position, on the sidelines. You're aware of this already, aren't you? It wouldn't be prudent for the commander to charge recklessly into battle. That would risk everything.

[ He's not sure why he's even bothering to explain. Shiro had never been the brightest pilot on board, after all, but he's still a valuable pawn in his own right. Just another piece on Lelouch's board that's needed to overthrow Britannia. ]