Since the night before in the Black Hills when he first bandaged his hand, he hoped to keep the others from prying too deeply about its true origins. Even Cole was unaware of what it was then, at first believing it to be a bruise resulting from a fall from his horse. He later learned it was mark to be used in locating him by its creator by was of a psionic presence. As he slept en route to Macula he learned more of its origins and garnered a few pieces of information regarding the intent of the man-in-white. After being struck down by the Berserker, the rest of the pieces fell into place while unconscious. He felt urged to keep the others learning what may happen to him, they had a kingdom to save. Believing it unwise to use their energies for his sake, he kept quiet on the matter as to not draw their interest. However, Kryschenn’s constant questioning of his being, his health, the Stone, and his hand seemed to be hitting all around the issue he wanted to keep silent. He wasn’t lying to her in any of his answers, for a part of the truth always present in each response given. However, he was becoming agitated that she was making it harder for the matter to be downplayed with each passing question. His hand was bandaged, that fact couldn’t be denied, yet none of the others sought to bring up the matter. It was now after waking up in the stream tunnel that he had been supplied real answers after a day of not even knowing the questions. His last response to Kryschenn was somewhat sarcastic, as it did strike a cord within the Mentalist. He struggled internally to keep his cool for now, slimly maintaining it under the belief that if he could satisfy her latest inquiry she would let the matter go. He reminded himself that she was only trying to help. She knew nothing of the one referred to as ‘man-in-white,’ or his desire for the Stone. Cole intended to keep it that way.
"It's not that badly hurt, Kryschenn,” Cole grudgingly admitted, after finally being allowed a chance to respond, “I made sure the leather straps were securely tightened before we entered the clearing. I seriously doubt that I could have caught an infection from climbing down the mountains since it’s on the back of my hand, not the palm."
He then placed his bandaged hand on the Berserker's shoulder guard, his eyes meeting her own. "Kryschenn, as much as I appreciate your offer to help in treating it with your herb craft, can we please just forget about my hand for now and catch up with the others, please?” Cole asked of her. He sincerely hoped she would consider his request.
Stepping back, The Mentalist held his bandaged hand up, allowing Kryschenn to see the weave pattern he used in tying it while he flashed it before her. Very calm and quiet he made what he hoped to be his last remark on the issue. “Besides, we have more important things to deal with than this, you know. We all do.”
