[Logically speaking, maybe Hanako shouldn't be helping a total newbie out-- at least, not by himself, anyway. After what happened the first (and last) time he mentored somebody, he was admittedly a little gun-shy about taking complete responsibility for another Novice so soon. Spooking Illya had been fun, but if something actually truly dangerous happened to her on his watch... he wouldn't be able to forgive himself.

But... he couldn't be stuck in this mindset forever, and maybe if they took it slow and easy, it would be a boon for both of their self-confidences. Sure, it would suck not to go exploring in the more dangerous reaches of the Dream Sphere while he was with her, but Hanako wasn't so sadistic as to throw Illya to the metaphorical wolves so soon after becoming a Dreamer.

So when she agrees, that smirk of his turns into something more sunny, something more cheerful, the beam on his face so bright it practically glows.]

Great! [Boy, his mood sure shifts on a dime, huh--] So, when do you wanna start? Now? Later? My schedule's pretty free now that most of the older folk are off looking for that Crimson lady, so I'm ready to go whenever you are!

[He sure seems excited for someone who's still feeling a bit reluctant about training a Novice--]

Just call me Senpai!

[THERE it is]