If it wasn't already apparent, Castiel's pace as they climbed the stairs made Soushi all the more certain that he was still injured. He'd been walking around well enough, but he'd been on crutches only a handful of days ago. How much could a human have recovered in that time?

He slowed his steps, though he still reached the top before the other man. The question, he supposed, was to be expected. For every comment he made, Castiel scrutinized. There was no such thing as small talk or idle chatter with this one.

"I was with a small group that was attacked last night by some sort of malevolent spirit," he replied, waiting at the top of the stairs and searching the darkness with what little light spilled out into the hall beyond.

He was quiet a moment before giving another short nod.

"It seems to be clear so far."

[to here]