impossible reasons

Amalia’s question just got more chilling grins. ”I was weak, yes. And so it didn’t matter how obedient I was.” Indeed, Loren had followed all the rules, listened to his elders, even stopped crying when they flayed him with magic, because it bothered them so. However, his own abilities hadn’t progressed fast or far enough to ever satisfy his family. ”I am, stronger than I’ve ever been. Though I suppose that depends on your definition of strength.” No doubt she had a very different view of that than he did. Switching up the circle to pace slowly back and forth in front of the leopardess, the summoner’s eyes never left her. ”There's one way we could find out if I'm stronger now. Care for another round?” Because the Launceleyn had been holding himself back for fear of hurting the baker. However, though he’d promised not to physically harm her, if she asked for it that wasn’t his problem. Indeed, he’d welcome flexing his mental and actual muscles. She'd probably turn him down, more's the pity. Then Amalia asked the question that seemed to be on everybody’s mind these days. Luckily, he was more than willing to answer this one. His voice came out conversationally, almost, though darkness still lurked in his eyes ”Childhood of trauma and abuse, I’m surrounded by people who are suspicions of me, my actions and intentions, Remi asked me to kiss him, I have no friends or loved ones left, not really, someone sent Ludo after me, it’s anyone’s guess really, so take your pick.” It had been a long Deepfrost for the Launceleyn, and they hadn’t even reached LongNight yet. While he probably should’ve been less forthcoming about what had happened to him, everyone was already gossiping about it, so there didn’t seem to be much need to hold back. ”Turns out, I’m okay being a dick. At least this way people tell me how they really feel about me." He tilted his head to regard her with a cold, almost clinical stare."You know, I could never figure out if you liked me or not, Amalia.” LOREN Not quite an open book