[Now if only he possessed some of the same tact and self control in order to stop himself from saying something stupid. But alas.]

Even if we didn't defeat her then we would have fended her off just like the other times! [Probably. Maybe. Why is acknowledging help from others such an issue, and from his brother no less. It probably wouldn't kill him to show a little thanks, or at least it didn't when he thanked Tilkis and Forest back home. Plus this really does nothing for the whole 'didn't mother ever teach you any manners' thing.

Pause. Awkwardly trying to find the right words.]

Thanks. I know you can take care of yourself... But so can I! [He's beaten plenty of Spots after all, and if Rommy is a Spot then that's just what she is. Another Spot. But no, no, not turning this into more of an argument.] You understand why I would be worried though right? Even if you say you can look after yourself the big brother has to keep an eye out on the little brother.

[Having lived a fairly lonely life full of upset it really does no good to dwell on things in the past, so focusing on the here and now is best. Right now they're brothers, and making sure your brother is safe and going strong is just something a brother should do. Or at least Caius thinks so anyway.]