Mithrun might be inclined to keep arguing, to push back himself, if it weren't for that brief silence. That means more to him, honestly, than the words.

Sure, it "only takes once". That's one thing. The weight of Angeal's hesitation in the moments between is quite another.

There's still a defensive edge to Mithrun's voice, when he answers. "What am I supposed to do about it?" He swallows - another thump of his tail in the snow. "I am already... I'm doing what I can."

He's pretty sure he is, anyway.