"You are a coward," he stated matter-of-factly, staring at her.

"Mikoto! What are…"

"Stay out of this," he snapped at Izumo.

Turning back to her, he moved slowly, taking in her face. Her eyes. Staring back at him.

"You are a coward," he repeated.

"Are you afraid of me?"

She snorted and looked away muttering, "Cute."

He smirked at her expression. That sudden show of bravery in the face of the Red King. Only in the face of the Red King. She looked back up at him, her eyes hiding nothing.

"Right. So, tell me everything because you aren't afraid of me," he said, moving closer to her.

Never taking his eyes off hers, he whispered, "And let me fight everyone else for you."

"Let me be your courage."