[ The tone, the words: all things Claude understands too well, current situation aside, and the fleeting smile he offers Istredd contains sympathy and empathy both in equal parts. No, it certainly isn't fun to be the one holding things together when they could implode at any given moment. Not here, especially, when there's too many that they care about who might have even worse happen to them if they don't figure out something soon. ]

For what it's worth, I think Sylvain would say the same thing. [ In regards to an emergency, that is, though Claude's not sure how this and a chance to get out wouldn't qualify as just that. It's still prudent to heed that instruction though even if Claude dislikes the idea of leaving just one person to bear the weight of handling everything, internal strength or not. ] But he'd also say the same about taking care of yourself because we'll all need our strength for getting out of here when the time comes. The others are looking for us from what I've heard from friends and others.

[ All of that being things Claude's choosing to not put an if in front of, unspoken or otherwise, even if they need to have some other plans ready just in case. That's something to be thought over later since a crack in a wall may not even lead anywhere. But it's a start - it's promising. Keeping watch is the least he can do and so Claude nods again. ]

I'll keep an eye on whatever I can and ask whoever else I can if they can see the same. Even if we can't tell what day or time it is down here, any little patterns can lead to a bigger one and that might another key to getting out of here.

[ He's not one for being in anyone's personal space, but Claude leans over to place a hand on Istredd's shoulder in support, thinks about letting that go unsaid to let the gesture speak for him, and then changes his mind. ]

Whatever else you need, count me in for it. I mean that.