[He's not exactly sitting toe-to-toe with the god, but those words, they make him pull back. Quick, almost startled. Like a shudder. It hits like a gunshot, and he sniffs, rubbing his nose with a knuckle as he looks away.]

Maybe.

[Eventually, he turns back. He's not sure what the Trader gets out of this, if anything; maybe he'll wake up and not even remember Credo. In some ways, it'd be easier. But it's not what he wants. Just... it's a feeling, that's all. It's Lorelai's gentle nature and her trust in him that's convinced Nero of anything. Maybe she's trusted the wrong people in the past, but that gives her all the more reason not to trust anyone now. But... she does. Like he does.]

Yeah. Thanks.

[He pockets the coin. It's just enough time for him to lift his gaze, turning with the Trader, stepping in front of the god to approach the twisting dark thing that's sucking the oxygen outta the around them.

Sweet. He could use some action. Now he's feeling all loose, like this weight pulling on his tail's finally gone.

Credo would've bitched at him, said he was still too eager for fights. Yeah, he is! And it ain't gonna change!]

Shit. Never a dull moment around here, huh? [He stretches his fingers out in front of him, cracking his knuckles. He gives Steve a glance over his shoulder, rolling it as his eyes light up.] And let somethin' go straight for the settlement after? Or chase us down? Seriously, I don't dance that way. [He draws his sword, revving the engine in the hilt. The sword roars as Nero tosses the blade to lean against his shoulder, swaggering a few feet in front.] Just keep the kids safe, Steve! I got this.

[The sword roars as fluid rolls down the blade, sparks flying off his sword.] You hear me, asshole? Come on out! I don't got all day, and I really hate eavesdroppers.