Ned is prepared and ready for the whack, knowing she would more than likely try to test his grip and his strength from the start. He doesn't falter, nor does he seem to even acknowledge the strength of her hit against his makeshift sword. He allows a quiet, subdued smile to grace his face as she falls into position, once again thanking the Old Gods for the chance for them to be together like this again. For however long either of them stayed in this place, he reminds himself to never take these moments for granted, and to commit them to memory as best he can.

He's now torn, however, between offering the kind of kind and sympathetic support she seeks, while also helping to keep her mind off of darker topics with their play sword-fighting. It's a delicate balance, and he gently shuffles forward to attempt a light poke of her ribs while still showing his attentiveness.

"He was cross with you for having done so," he states, not in a way to suggest he already knows this but to suggest he understands where this conversation is leading.