Fallen
Ryu didn't say much of anything as he looked toward Aika, he only smiled lightly, a smile that was quite breathtaking. If it wasn't for the fact that Ryu was far too junior to her, knocking off several points from him, Aika might even admit this to herself. But it was too difficult to look at someone so much weaker than her as a viable partner.
Even so, Ryu's bearing was no less magnificent than a man that should be able to stand shoulder to shoulder with her. And his large, looming presence, which was even currently casting a shadow over her petite frame, was somehow quite comforting even though she was well aware that she wouldn't even have to lift a finger to deal with him.
Aika found herself at a loss for words, unable to find the words that she should be speaking at the moment. It was quite suffocating.
"… You've improved quite a great deal."
"Not much," Ryu shook his head.