smartass_captain

From:

"You think people don't rely on me? You think you're stronger than I am? This isn't a fucking competition Isidor. Fine, you're stronger than I am. Of course you are. You're the daughter to the Archon, you're a born mage."

No matter how Isidor bristles Jim doesn't flinch. He's faced down monsters vile enough to ruin entire planets. Facing down someone he considers a friend is harder in some ways, but her bared teeth have Jim disassociating back into the safety of his captain's demeanor. Pulling the cool face on like a barrier between himself and the rest of the world. Later, he will be guilty about the words coming out of his mouth. Later, he will lay awake and gasp for air at the thought of admitting this side of him to another soul. What she'll do with that knowledge.

Later.

"If you're so fucking strong, why even come to me to begin with? Just to gloat about your superiority and rub my nose in it? I'm trying to help you. Do it all on your own if you feel you have to. I've been there. Someone's going to see the truth eventually and it won't be on your terms. Most people will leave. How could they be expected to handle that? Especially with no forewarning. You have something special right now, and it'd be a fucking waste to see you throw it away because of your pride."