Duster cautiously loosened his grip, ready to pull her back if she made any sudden movements towards Aoi. She didn't. He let go.

"You're siblings," he said as if that were the most obvious thing. He had no brother, no other kid he grew up with, but knowing what he heard from Lucas, he understood that there was a bond between siblings that remained during dark times. "You look out for each other, I can tell. Aoi, you said..." He paused, rubbing his thumb and forefinger as he thought. "You did whatever it took to keep Akane safe, right? Because she's your sister.

"Akane." He turned to her. "You're a good person. You've stuck by your brother for so long, and it's obvious you still care about him.

"...And both of you think you don't deserve the other."