[Holding the mug with both hands, he taps the side of it with his fingers, thoughtful. He wanted to shake Irhya down for more information; it was clear she was holding something back, and the Ascian was less inclined than before to give her the benefit of the doubt. But yet, if he accepted the information for what it was....

It still didn't change his own fate, what he would have to face eventually, but- it was something to think about. A timeline when the Eighth Umbral Calamity succeeded, the next Rejoining had succeeded. Even if he'd never see it himself.]

...I don't believe you're lying. Thank you for telling me.

[The neutrality is a step up from cold, at least. Though at Irhya's question, he sighs, frowning anew as he stares across at her. But he hesitates, trying to find the words to explain, rather than only lash out again.]

And there's a difference between what you want to do, and what you're willing to do. I had thought- believed, that it was a matter of non-interference. That if I should find the means to change my personal fate, that you would put your faith in my star's Warrior of Light to be able to handle the drift in their tide.

To trust- if not the both of us, at least that reflection of yourself.