That depends on what you mean you must be ready to do.

[ Which is the real question here, he supposes. What is it Barnaby thinks will be asked of him? To leave Kotetsu's side? To go against him, even to fight him?

If so, Sturmhond can't help but think that Kotetsu would be the one to be tested first. Barnaby's actions are only being questioned because he values his partner so dearly. If Kotetsu does not trip, in other words, Barnaby will never need to catch him. ]

What is it you think will be asked of you, my friend, and why do you think it? Would your first port of call not be ensuring that Kotetsu does not put you in that position?