[ It's a fair question. Due to their state as Harbingers, she's privy to the busy nature of his mind only growing busier, even as his guarded mind muffles any distinct words from carrying through.

For all this, his expression remains one of concern, reflecting nothing of just how much processing he's doing. Why? Rin should understand quite well that admitting to caring is a difficult hurdle, though their reasons differ. ]

Maybe I should be, but this all doesn't sit right with me. [ He settles on this, thinking it easiest on them both. ] Now, if you were in a pit, I'd absolutely leave you there, but this is something else.

[ He'd expect her to do the same. They are competing, after all. ]