[ shutting the door behind him, ryuu takes a moment to look him over. not just because of the delicate wings or fluttery antennae, but because of what he'd come to know about kaede's personality in the short time he's known him. there are times when ryuu isn't the swiftest on the uptake, but he makes up for it with heart - something he has in spades.

his expression remains warm, if not without the slight creases of concentration as he tries to feel around for something he more senses than sees. this affection is his own, and not just the work of the sapphire embedded in the small of his back. ]

I've seen it get pretty crazy already... I kept thinking, even if it's tough to swallow... I probably ought to stay where I am for now.

[ so here he is. limitations... aren't his favorite, but even as a gembonded, he feels ordinary next to everyone else.

quieting, his fingers flex and he lifts an arm, as if he wants to reach out and touch. ]

But you're really okay? You didn't use too much manna getting here?