Even the softest of touches against her threat was enough to incite another delicate shiver from Tear, breath hitching reflexively before realising he had already pulled away. Allowing herself to breathe again, her arms wrapped around him more securely than before—Ace might not be able to embrace her to his full capacity, but she could make it up for him until he had recovered enough. However, the steady stream of healing slowly lessened before coming a stop, despite her desire to continue. It was a necessary measure if she wanted to conserve enough energy to still protect them both.

"I think that stubbornness helps in keeping up with you. Such a day... it's unimaginable." The smile returned to her lips, albeit softer than before with its trace of wistfulness. "If it were to ever come, then I'll have to acknowledge I've failed as your partner and call myself the idiot."

People changed, that much was true. But it wasn't that she genuinely thought Ace was dimwitted or incapable that she called him by such an insult. The idiocy was in his recklessness and desire in following others in their foolishness, most especially her own.

"Right now, calling you an idiot involves me ordering you to also rest." And may the stern look she was suddenly bestowing upon him emphasise that point. "In order to save this world, we have to oversee that its salvation is achieved. You have to be there."

Closing her eyes, she rested her cheek against his hair. "I'll do whatever it takes to make sure you are."