"Right." Shiro acknowledged Ikeda's short-of-breath request, before turning to face the two warriors returning alive. "But first, let me say I share the lady's sentiment...jolly good the both of you. You can rest up while the rest of us collect our dear friend, and Ikeda its best if you stay with these two. Its clear you've exhausted yourself pulling them back from the brink, and our little white mage is no good if she's used up all her MP." Of course, Shiro didn't want to leave her behind and in a way he was breaking his promise to protect her, but as 'Loveless' he simply couldn't admit his feelings without breaking character. [i]This is best[/i] he tried reassuring himself, thinking realistically. "Now if you don't mind I grow restless and I am sure you want to give me my lumps for skipping out earlier, but allow me to pay you back by rescuing Takahiro-san. I definitely will not fail." He paused momentarily confident with his declaration of intent before realizing he'd skipped the explanation. "Oh. Takahiro's been kidnapped by the way. By whom? No idea. Where is he being held? No clue."