Ease the pain

The woman wasn't sure if his smile was a good or bad sign, maybe he felt he could earn her good graces through emotional appeals alone, something she certainly had neither time nor patience for. But it didn't exactly displease her to find he at least didn't seem sullen and withdrawn, the smile could just as easily be a sign he bore her no ill-will and would apply himself. Something she certainly hoped to be true. Her worries would be put to rest when the man spoke, and the woman hummed lightly, nodding. "I certainly hope so." She stepped closer, probably a little too close. "In truth I have high hopes for you, though I hope you understand that I cannot make exceptions, you are in a sense, a bit of an example, to deter others from following the same fate." It wasn't exactly meant to be cruel but Recluse felt no need to beat around the bush.

"But I have always expected more for you... from you, so I do hope you won't dissapoint." She slipped up beside him, leaning slightly so that her weight pressed into his side. "If it would help I am more than eager to test your fighting skills for myself..."

Speech