[the only reason he lets Aether struggle free is because he's taken aback by the cracks and glassy eyes and breathing. That and the noise sort of make sense now, but - wasn't he making that noise right after he fell? What the hell is going on?]

No kidding, it already looks like it's started with you!

All right, new plan - [he shrugs out of his haori and dumps it on Aether's head as he stands up straight] You make for the exit and avoid becoming a sculpture, and I'll draw it's attention while you do - if I can get close enough Ushi can take out that first phantom, too.