( the gratitude catches him off guard and he just stares for a second, unsure of what to say to that. but he eventually shakes himself free and laughs a bit. )

You're welcome. If it wasn't me, I'm sure someone else would.

( he wants to hope so, at least. he pauses for a second, jaw working back and forth. )

I haven't done a lot of sparring here. I should. My trainer would probably be upset about that but I think that's his default state.