[The surprise at being called "Howard" so unflinchingly is evident in the way he blinks almost owlishly for a moment before regaining his composure.]
... I see.
[It's rather the opposite of what Link is used to, who has almost always been called by only his last name and always does the same in return. The only exceptions are when he uses someone's full name, generally just in moments of irritation like a parent might when scolding their child. It's a habit born moreso from upbringing than simple politeness, although that's also a part of it. As a Crow and Inspector it was important to keep an emotional distance between emotions and work, and Link has always prided himself in doing well in that regard.
... At least, until more recently.
But he doesn't dwell on that, his focus thankfully being drawn by Shino speaking up again as the train slows. Eager to move on past his own awkwardness the blonde nods and gets to his feet.]
it's no problem, that's a mood
... I see.
[It's rather the opposite of what Link is used to, who has almost always been called by only his last name and always does the same in return. The only exceptions are when he uses someone's full name, generally just in moments of irritation like a parent might when scolding their child. It's a habit born moreso from upbringing than simple politeness, although that's also a part of it. As a Crow and Inspector it was important to keep an emotional distance between emotions and work, and Link has always prided himself in doing well in that regard.
... At least, until more recently.
But he doesn't dwell on that, his focus thankfully being drawn by Shino speaking up again as the train slows. Eager to move on past his own awkwardness the blonde nods and gets to his feet.]
Very well, let's go.