[ his brow quirks and he studies the other boy a long moment, as if trying to divine what "surprising" alternate form he could have — but books, covers, etc. he doesn't pry, but he does make it a point to remember. ]

I'm looking forward to seeing it, then.

[ he sounds uh

sincere. but then, he takes up a long dagger and weighs it in his palm, flipping its edge to sit backwards against his forearm. ]

Until that time, it's lucky an opportunity like this came up if you enjoy combat.

[ he... assumes... ]