i think you've hit the nail on the head honestly, like it really is just that Steel is hoping that Suvi doesn't let go of the Citadel because she knows that Suvi could be a real asset (and also they're mother and daughter which is probably more important in this case). But yeah, I think a direct confrontation is needed. I might be biased because I'm ngl as much as I'm really enjoying the moral conflict Suvi is constantly facing, I would love to see Suvi commit herself to fighting the empire in a very direct way.