[An eyebrow does raise, at that. All in this together? It's not a sentiment he expected John of all people to espouse, though he hears others say things like it from time to time. Idealists and bleeding hearts, typically.

Under different circumstances, in a different context than being literally tied together asked to form a connection, he might have considered that shift in attitude as something to use in the future. But if an alliance won't do, then ... honesty it is.]

Let me ask you something then, John-san. Do you genuinely believe Echo is benevolent, and does not intend to play us against each other for the safety of our worlds? I will admit, I don't.