*the girl’s words stab him in his turned back like a flurry of knives, one after another. he’s disgruntled, offended, ashamed, and miserable all at once, even moreso when alluka comes to his defense. he shouldn’t have to hide behind his little sister, or some random girl who couldn’t be older than her. his hands come to cup alluka’s tearful, angry face, petting her flattened ears to calm her down.*

no. she’s right.

*he turns back to the girl, his gloomy aura replaced with one of fierce resolve.*

who are you? and what do you know about nen?

*his mind is made up. he has to get stronger so he can protect alluka.*

i need to learn how to use it.