[ Her words cause him to stop in his tracks for a moment, and he'd be bemused if he also. again, didn't expect this from her. ]

I see. Then I'll have to admit defeat.

[ Not only because he won't contest her judgment, but because he doesn't want to change her; far be it for him to try. ]

But let me apologize, Master, for my selfishness in keeping you safe— that, in doing so, you're obliged to look after me.

[ He laughs, though, brightly; Diarmuid Ua Duibhne of the Shining Face, who looks much younger when he's happy. ]

You're too kind.