Other than maybe yourself, so yes, there's at least that much. [ Is the wry retort, but he's already settling down on the rim of a nearby wineglass. ] You realize that if you don't want to be pitied, the surest way to do so is to not look like you require it. [ hint hint

before he finally turns his head toward Ember and gives her a curt, but cordial, nod. Still that's all she gets for the time being as he returns most his attention to staring down the sword. ]