"Hmm." Dan Heng's brows furrow. "If nothing else, your support will make it easier to explain my position to Pom-Pom, if they happen to have any reservations."

He hesitates for a moment, but in the end reaches out to place a hand atop Welt's in quiet gratitude.

"Thank you."

And if his touch lingers, well... Dan Heng just hopes that Welt doesn't notice. He pulls his hand back, clearing his throat.

"...when was the last time we had the parlour car to ourselves?"