It isn't a one-sided rebuff, a reaction to his attempt that Ryo would be ignorant to. Like this, a connection is nearly made, something grips - and the sali feels it more than even Ryo does, immediately so. The sali's face contorts against their usually muted expression, their arm jerking, pulled back away from Ryo.

They take in a few breaths, staring at Ryo quietly, as they feel the ache in the arm from the attempted connection. But, before the pain even recedes:

"Go with your people. Follow our healers' instructions you meet."

Their tone is slightly shaken, but with that instruction, they lift their chin to the exit, expecting him to leave first.