It's one of those things that the more you think about it, the less it makes sense. It also had to do with his being so out of touch with the Order and trying to live up to Jedi expectations. Cal can see how one's focus can shift in favor of those you grow close to, but maybe focus isn't that bad a thing. The Jedi had stretched themselves thin.

Merrin's comment isn't something he can disagree with. Framed in that particular way that she can manage, it makes him laugh. "I guess we are," he concedes with another shrug. "Maybe being here is a chance to try things a little differently."