That's about the most encouraging news he has for her, so he's glad that she takes it for what it's meant to be. It isn't his fault that they were separated, but he still feels responsible for them, and he'll probably be working on how to fix it up until they find the others. One thing at a time.

He only has a second to be relieved that she isn't injured when she mentions Karsa. Of course she was the one who got to his sister first, and he doesn't put it past her that she hoped that comment would get back to him.

"You probably shouldn't listen to everything she has to say," he replies with obvious (very mature) restraint at her amusement. He's well aware of that woman's grudge, and it's a very mutual feeling. "Or anyone else, for that matter. Don't get confused. We're only traveling together because we have no other option."

Unless she wants to rumor the entire party. Which, for the record, he's not against.