Ren admired Terim's cleverness. Rather than feeling threatened by it, he appreciated it deeply. It made him aware that Terim must have his own difficulties, just like him, difficulties that had forced this teenager to learn how to use everything to his advantage.
Ren found himself liking this moment in more than one way. He was relieved they now had undeniable proof against Sabrina. More than that, he was thankful for Terim's presence, vibrant and resourceful, beside him.
This young boy had given his weary old soul enough love and support that, in just a few days, Ren found himself liking him more and more. Yet, one thought nagged at him relentlessly.
In the original novel, after Terim died, why was there not much impact?
After all, it was the Polaris Family's youngest member who was hung at the academy gates. There was not a single clue about the killer until Win stepped in.