In the original script, Jared had Tarkaryak staring at the conduit in quiet reverence. I didn't read the script very carefully when I penciled this page but it's TOO LATE NOW, ISN'T IT
You've masterfully avoided talking heads by making every panel something interesting to look at. Plus Tarkaryak's design is really cool. I must remember to come and read fro the start. I never looked because the avatar looked like a CG thing.
Looking forward to your other thoughts and suggestions if you do get time to read the archive. :)