~even now, all things considered."

~abundance of caution as a result of a few incidents of late."

It's a simple enough explanation, gesturing with his hand for emphasis.

"There was... an imposter of sorts, taking on the faces of friends and allies to trick us. Though I am loathe to admit, I... would not put this tactic above him~

~in mild suspicion.

...was that her?
Or was it Rerir in disguise trying to trick him?

"...it certainly has been." He answers carefully, head turning slightly. "...tell me, am I seeing who I believe I am or is it a facade you wish me to see?"

~said 002, what you choose to do with the information I provide is up to you... I can't give you more than that right now."

~I happen to find you there on my journey."

Not an outright invitation to join him, but there was enough information allowed to give 002 the chance to decide whether or not he wanted to go on his own, how he could make it seem to others and ultimately, whether or not he wished to help.

"Like I~

~the event their paths crossed again.

"....I'll be headed to Natlan to investigate an increase in Abyss Order activity soon enough..." He states carefully, gaze still staring off into the distance before he finally looks back to 002.

"Perhaps you can use your missing colleague as an excuse should~

~With that said, Dainsleif glanced off, lost in thought as he considers how best to approach this. He can't just outright BRING the Harbinger with him, not when the risks posed are too great in many respects, but that doesn't mean he couldn't leave the same door open he left for the Traveller in~

~and non-confrontational means to say he knows, or at least figured it out easily enough.

".....I could ask how long you intended to keep me in the dark about your affiliations, but considering my own secrets, I find it to be in poor taste..."