Somewhere in that talk, Manabu's eyes drop away. He's ashamed of himself for doubting honest encouragement, and moreso hearing the earnest tone Duo shifts to. He probably shouldn't really blame himself too much, considering the atmosphere long-timers give off and what passes for status-quo among ImPorts, but he wouldn't be himself if he cut slack like that.

As if it's choreographed, Manabu looks back when Duo looks away, the resolve creeping back into his somber expression.



"Well, I can only do what I can," he says. "Whether that changes anything at all...I don't know if I have a say in all that. If destiny really is real, I can't do much about it but keep moving forward and hope it's on my side."