[ his smile fades, expression falling, soft and sad and weary. ]

.. I know. [ and even if he does, he's the samonji blade. he's worth more as a symbol, kept caged like some kind of exotic bird.

he folds his hands together, nearly white-knuckled as he takes a deep breath. ]

But.. there's nothing.. that I can do about that, not truly. It isn't my place to protest the one that lays claim to me. [ he hesitates, then digs up a small smile, letting it curve onto his mouth. ] I'll try to be cautious, though. It's kind of you to be concerned for my sake.