subordinacy: (57.)
[... One way or another, this will likely be one of the last conversations they have—for real, this time.

Unlike before, Setz doesn't approach Shinssin with confidence. He isn't afraid either, exactly, but now, he comes with no specific thoughts in mind. (What can he even say, in response to what's happened?) In the end, he's going into this blind.

He stops a short distance away.

And quietly, he asks,]


... Why...?
subordinacy: (5.)
[...

He's spent the last few days injured (still injured, really), recovering from blood loss, stressed, and on little sleep, and two people he was counting on to be here just killed each other (and Setz wonders, could he have done something to convince Monika to live?). All things considered, he realizes that at this point, his ability to reason has likely short-circuited.

This might be why, in spite of everything, he approaches Shinssin. Not an accidental encounter, not with any fear—as soon as he sees the man, he walks right up to him, his expression resolute.]