[ o-oh. even if his flush isn't visible, that makes him wonder if it's something that can be felt... and the embarrassment at that thought just makes it stronger. he doesn't make any move to avoid the kiss, just sheepishly averts his eyes again... and lightly touches his cheek afterward. ]

It is... a gradual effect that has evolved as I have grown closer to people, both at home and here. I have seen how my allies have moved forward from the darkness in their pasts into brighter futures... and though I long thought there would be no place for me outside of the shadows, they have been willing to offer me a place beside them.