Sakuta was likely being polite, as Soushi's nurse hovered nearby, but he faintly smiled his gratitude and took a seat beside the young man. Asking after his well-being, he was sure it was all just polite idle chatter. Sakuta would not wish to know that had lost his resolve along with his master's affection, that Soushi had spent most of the day trying to decide if it was better to honor his master's wishes and disappear, or if there was some other reason for her change of heart.

"I am well, thank you for asking," he replied in the same soft, polite tone.

"I've yet to make much progress since our last meeting," he added, sounding a bit apologetic. "How have you fared Sakuta-san?"