Cain's cursory inspection would be able spot the small about of blood coming from Pepper's right ear - her eardrum ruptured in the explosion. It hasn't turned into a splitting headache yet, fortunately.

And apparently Cain is immortal. Uh. Well, that would explain the insta-heal.

"I'm okay," she says, as much for Cain's benefit as her own. The very vague description of Valdis' plight causes a sinking sensation in her stomach. Very not good. "Help Valdis," she says as firmly as she can. "I'll get out with Tony."

Pepper can't be the rescuer here, and while that rankles, she's smarter than trying to pretend otherwise.