[Also not the worst thing he's smelled, either, but it's not stopping him from making a face at it and breathing through his slightly parted lips.]

I largely suspect we will not find him alive, yes. [Missing persons cases three three outcomes: found alive, found dead, or never found period. The latter two are the most likely. And in this case, well, he can't see a positive outcome.] Regardless, we should at least try to solve the disappearance to give his family some peace.

[Though frankly he thinks this is probably more about the social standing and issues with that more than any sort of love but possibly he's just cynical.

But usually he's proven right, so! He's just a realist.]