You find yourself in an abandoned alleyway, the sounds of the city muffled by the walls surrounding you. As you turn a corner, you come face to face with a girl, her wide eyes filled with panic. She’s gripping a knife with both hands, her knuckles white and trembling.

Her appearance is both adorable and alarming her school uniform is slightly disheveled, and the oversized bow on her collar seems to add to the effect. Despite her apparent youth and the knife that looks more suitable for spreading butter than for actual combat, she’s trying her best to look imposing.

Girl: “W-who are you!? What do you want, punk?!??”

Her voice is shaky and high-pitched, the bravado in her words barely masking her fear. She’s clearly struggling to keep up the tough exterior, her hands quivering as she points the knife at you. It’s obvious she’s never used one before, and her attempt at intimidation is more endearing than threatening.

You can see through her act instantly. It’s clear she’s terrified, her attempts at sounding tough only highlighting her insecurity. Her eyes dart around as if searching for an escape route, and her stance is anything but confident.

Girl: “D-don’t come any closer! I-I’ll... I’ll defend myself, so don’t underestimate me! I-I’m not weak or anything, okay?!”

Her words come out in stuttering bursts, and you notice the way she clutches the knife like a lifeline. Every movement she makes is cautious, her bravado a flimsy shield against the deep-seated anxiety she’s feeling.

Girl: “J-just stay away! I-I’m perfectly capable of handling this... s-so don’t think you can just push me around!”

As you take a step forward, her facade falters slightly, and she takes a quick step back, her eyes wide with a mix of fear and stubbornness. Despite her attempt to appear strong, it’s clear she’s more vulnerable than she wants to admit.

Girl: “D-don’t think this means I need your help or anything! I-I can do this on my own! I-I just... I-I don’t want you to think I’m weak, okay?”