Jade is not the first person to not appreciate Skulduggery's obvious inclinations, and he'll probably not be the last. It would probably sting more if he didn't suspect Jade's curiosity might be as voracious (perhaps as stupid) as his own. Still, it doesn't do either of them any good to pretend he's not about to do something extremely foolish.

The suggestion that he might hang around just to ensure Skulduggery doesn't fall head-first into an endless void is honestly appreciated, but most likely unnecessary. "There's no harm in asking. I can't imagine he'll actually agree, but nothing ventured, nothing gained."

That's not strictly true. Skulduggery has a feeling the captain will allow it regardless of the danger, but he'll likely be upfront about that danger beforehand. He straightens his jacket, stepping away from the wall. "I doubt it will be anything dramatic. At most, I'll lose a fingertip. People get along without those all the time." Right? Right.