You're a cold blood, yes? I suppose that's to be expected. [or maybe it came from his powers before coming here? then the blood is the one that's fitting.

he shakes his head.] Eh, I will take being surprised if it saves my life. [he offers a dry quirk of the lips at that, to share the joke and perhaps to assure him. maybe a few days ago he'd be in worse condition, lungs rebelling against the cold, but the temporary healing has done a number there.

so he doesn't even need to lie to say.] I am, truly. I'm hardier than I look. [again that dry tone at the end and he glances to the archway, shifting to thoughtful.]

Let's review. Our first loop we did not meet the beast and were brought back. This one we did but were also brought back. That said perhaps the key is catching them unaware? If you can purify them perhaps 'doing it right' is doing exactly that without any bloodshed.