I will. [ he offers his own smile—also small, with a little crinkle between his eyebrows. ] I do like to team up when the opportunity presents itself.

[ Which is why it was so unfortunate when his reckless slap had prematurely ended their joint investigation on the river spirit. All's well that ends well on that one, but it had been disappointing to miss the chance to work together with Natori. He doesn't seem particularly eager on this endeavor, either, so Chongyun won't press the matter. ]

You're part of that too, you know. The people I care about. [ he looks back to the older man, ] I know we haven't known each other long ... but I've come to think of you as a good friend. If I can, I'll help you too.

[ And protect. That part goes unspoken, but the intention is palpable in the air anyway. He did just declare that he wants to get stronger to protect the people he cares about, didn't he? ]