That's almost heart-breaking, the way Ib is trying to be so strong. Kaji doesn't want to leave her behind. But, at this point, she might feel guilty if he stays.

"I promise." He puts a hand on her shoulder, about the most comforting thing he can think of, and tries to smile. "If there's one thing I'm really good at, it's saving my own neck when things get risky." Okay, maybe that's not the most positive thing he could have said, but it's true.

"I'll come back. That's an easy promise to make. And maybe I won't even have to leave for long at all. We'll see." If he can convince the Empire that he's turning double-agent for them while really being double-agent for the Heroes? Well, that's standard for Kaji, and means he doesn't have to leave Ib.