You’re not the first person to tell me that.

[ it’s said casually, leisurely even, like a reality he’s accustomed to.

but he’s talking — and that alone makes all the difference. nier can’t will himself to be upset with it. ]

I’m not even supposed to be here. But I am, somehow. If I want to do something — I will. And you can’t stop me.

[ and then with a more palpable anxiety— ]

…You okay? I figure the answer is no, but asking can’t hurt. I’m sorry if I pushed you past your limits…whatever those limits are.