Chapter 333: Chiding the Little Sis
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."
Hearing his words, Alice’s mood shifted. The girl’s lips pressed together tightly, her eyes trembling with sadness. For a long moment, she was quiet, head bowed dejectedly. His words had struck too deep. But then, with a fragile voice, she found her way back.
"And what if someone accused me?" she asked softly at first, then her voice grew stronger. "What if people said I was a vile alien, a monster, and accused me of many horrible things? Would you take it sitting down? Would you let them spit on my name?"
Not waiting for his response, Alice pushed forward, her words gaining heat with every syllable she uttered.
"That’s right! You’re a hypocrite, big brother!" she accused, cheeks puffing up adorably. "Just because I’m your little sister, I’m supposed to behave like some perfect doll? I have emotions too! And my emotions scream at me to protect you, no matter what, even if you’ve gotten stronger! I would still feel the same even if you became stronger than Mother!"
Her manic red eyes gleamed as she blinked at him, proud and smug, practically wagging her tail. She was far too happy with the points she managed to bring up in her defense.
Kaiden leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers together. He watched her with a long, quiet stare, the kind that made even the girl who’d faced down all sorts of elite monsters start to fidget. Finally, he leaned forward again, resting his crossed hands against his chin.