[ there's the light of curiosity in his eyes at her response -- better equipped than most? well, the fact that she can smile and doesn't seem on the verge of a depressive episode certainly does lend credence to that much, but... Abel wonders if that means Himeka's been Through Some Things before. what is her life like at home...? --ah, his mind is wandering, and he's forcing himself back to the present, ]

Well, to be completely frank with you? I'm actually trying with incredible dedication to avoid some kind of nervous breakdown, personally~! A-all of this is a little...

[ .......much?? yeah. what a diplomatic way to word it, ]

I mean-- are you... [ Abel hesitates, seeming to second-guessing himself before sliding her a slightly more hesitant glance, ] ...are you really taking this into stride? I am a definite proponent of the whole 'fake it til you make it' business, but... admittedly, this talk of rituals and the long trek to heaven knows where has me a little...

[ well. apprehensive might be an understatement, but he struggles to find the proper word -- so he leaves it unsaid, watching her quietly. ]