[ speaking of things he's slightly jealous about... but he can't be that jealous, because, well, he's gone to Belph during those times, too. His ability to keep a cool head makes him reliable and stable in a way Hikage isn't. ]

... You're strong. Much stronger than I am.

[ and she's tough and unwavering in a way that Hikage isn't. Still, he wants to believe there are things only he can do. ]

That's one of your best features. [ he doesn't move from where he's standing - he stays slightly behind her, refusing to corner her - but he lifts his hand, gingerly brushing it against her hair. ] ... But it's why people worry about you. You don't have to endure everything.

[ he doesn't want her to burn out. ]