(it's because he has to. they peomised to start small, and manjiro has already shed tears - they don't need him to add another layer of feelings on what is already hard enough to process. they don't have to make this harder. they're going to be here all night, there sure will be more tears to shed, tough topics to arise, and voices to tremble with words that get stuck kn their throat.

it doesn't have to be right now.

the next two gulps, as manjiro brings the bottle back to the counter, make him close his eyes a little harder. nevermind the way his nose is starting to grow scarlet.)

Yeah. I haven't really fought in a year or so, so I reopened the dojo to keep sharp, and turn around a profit. With ToMan disbanding, there ain't no reason to fight no more.