Espedon's eyebrows went up at the kiss. He had thought, for a second, that perhaps 'lead the way' in Common meant 'kiss Ritsuka' in Japanese- but Espedon did sense a transfer of power rising immediately from the act. It was like feeling a displacement of water while submerged, growing from a minor disturbance to a strong flow. Power extended out, shaped itself, and the snow obeyed.

His gaze followed the path of the tunnel as it extended up the hill. It would be better camouflage than the path he had been burning.

"Convenient."

Espedon looked back to Soubi to find him in the middle of his sarcastic bow. The boy's expression was priceless; so sure and so satisfied. Espedon hadn't been aware that they'd been in a contest, andthis elicited a 'hm' from him. He shrugged and gave Soubi a look that said 'yeah, okay, alright.' It was impressive dancing snow, he'd give him that.

Resting Angelfire on his shoulder and letting the shortsword dangle loosely in his hand, Espedon walked, in unsnowy comfort, up the hill.