Autor's eyes widen at her arm; he didn't actually think she'd been hurt. In fact, he still can't picture her damaged, as immortal as she is. He finds the dust on her skirt fascinating.

That he didn't do any of that is terribly irritating.

Ah, so she does know I'm not a fighter! Autor thinks. A frown supplants his smile, but only for a moment. Of course she knows. My stance gives me away. Well, I'll have to work within those limits, until I break them.

"That's very generous of you," he says, holding his hands out, palms up, as he crosses to her. He sighs, closing his eyes. "I'll try my best to make you regret the kindness you bear me."