( a slow exhale of breath, something like resignation settling over his expression. he'd anticipated this. between the shock and the circumstances of their meeting, there was a low to non-existent chance of her responding favorably to anything he said.

even so he'd hoped to be proven wrong.)

Where will you go? ( screwing the cap back onto the flask as she tries to put distance between them. she hasn't made it very far, dragging herself through the sand like an injured beast. )

If not with me? Who will have you after they hear what became of your people? Of the danger you bring with you?