Maruki's laughter was low, genuine in its quiet amusement as he shook his head. "Well, that’s refreshing. I have to admit, I half-expected you’d throw me to the wolves without so much as a second thought. Not that I’d blame you—let’s just say I can see that my reputation precedes me. To an extent I can't possibly anticipate."

His expression softened for a moment, though the guarded glint in his eyes remained, as if he were calculating something even as he spoke. He crossed his arms, leaning back with a thoughtful hum. "Still, I respect your honesty. It’s... grounding, in a way."