Alice Ashborn was defeated in a millisecond and instantly shrank further, mumbling a meek little, "S-sorry… I wanted to protect you…"
"Haaah…" Kaiden's sigh lingered in the heavy air. His shoulders eased, though his gaze stayed sharp as he addressed his sister. "Alice, I do appreciate what you tried to do. And I love you dearly, too."
"!!" Her head snapped up, eyes widening with a blinding brightness, tears instantly forgotten. The chains rattled as she leaned forward as much as the restraints allowed, outright glowing with utmost joy. "R-really? You love me too, big brother?"
Kaiden gave a small nod. "Of course. But listen to me, I'm not that loser nerd going to university to study economics anymore. I'm not helpless. I'm an awakened combatant now, with powers of my own. I don't need you to act as my valiant knight."
