[Aubrey, for one, is very grateful for Armin’s backup. She doesn’t feel like getting mad at Mari… ever, really, but especially not today. He’ll get a grateful ‘thank you! fuck’s sake’ kind of look for that.]

[Mari doesn’t notice. She does not at all like that Armin is echoing that thing in the cel, right down to the warning about being alone. Maybe she should have regarded his defense more carefully.]

[Nonetheless, the frown is brief.] Of course. None taken, Armin; it is best to be informed.

Is there a particular reason you mentioned being alone, by the by?

“Just tell us who you saw.” [Aubrey butts in, potentially interrupting Armin.]

[Goodness. She’s never been one to hold her tongue, but something truly must have happened.] Aubrey. [There’s the slightest warning in Mari’s tone, not quite a scold but the promise of one.

[Immediately Aubrey turns away, folding her arms. Mari reminds herself to be patient. Whatever did turn her into this, never mind the usual teenage hormones, must be far more difficult to deal with than any temporary snippiness.]

[Back to Armin, then. Apologetic.] I believe the figure I saw wants to hurt Aubrey. Forgive me if I’m a bit hesitant with the details.