( he just might, maybe, a little bit, exhale a small chuckle from his nose. he appreciates her candor. as much as he doesn't particularly want company right now, he thinks he can manage just fine with her. not that he's going to sit here and have a heart to heart with anyone or anything like that, but perhaps a conversation to take his mind away from this miserable place. ( because running away isn't an option, it never is for sylus. he's no coward. )

his gaze slips to look down at himself and his costume and lifts an arm to watch the fabric billow slightly. )

I can't say it's my style. ( his arm drops back to his side and his brow twitches slightly as he looks over her own costume. ) Don't think it's yours, either.

( no, someone like manuela is meant to be draped in rich, luxurious fabrics and dripping in gems and gold. but, that's just his opinion.

anyway.

he makes a gesture to the cave around them. )

Had my plan been to get you alone, I'd say it worked in my favor.

( subject avoidance? why, yes! )