[ a brief moment of conflict passes across his expression, but for what it is and the current situation, it's muted. in truth, feels like he ought to stay and suss out this area for himself, but with marie so forthcoming, he knows he ought to back down for now.

he nods, signaling that yes, he will try to relax. ]

I'm fine with anything. [ that much seems to be genuine at least. ] But if you don't mind me asking — stardust? Is that related to the Tanabata I heard about?

[ mostly in relation to the current bounty, but who's counting. ]