[ He doesn't quite let his guard down until most everyone's gone and moseyed off, and even then there's still a tight, protective grip around the sword he'd just taken back. This man--Claude, as he says--did step in to help and all, but it's unclear whether it was out of the kindness of his heart or some other agenda.

The stranger shakes his head, as if to dislodge the thought. When did he get so paranoid? ]

I am Abe no Seimei. [ His own bow back is much more spartan, but the intent is there. ] ...Thank you. For coming to my aid.

It would seem I've come at a bad time for you all. Tensions have been running unusually high as of late.