[ Long has she gone about her existence without defending herself to others, yet Tony's words resonate with what Noctis had encouraged of her before, that she might speak up when she wishes or stand up for herself. A doormat, Noctis had said, too, one who is walked over repeatedly.

And then there is the more recent matter with Noctis being hurt over something-- and Noctis being hurt is something she does want to defend, is something that she doesn't wish to be 'walked over', because someone she loves is in pain.

She appears troubled-- more than she had before-- and casts her gaze wayward. A few moments is all it takes to collect herself, and she returns her sight to him. ]

I'm not sure where it started. [ And in retrospect, it probably started a long, long time ago, far back than when Pyra herself had ever been made aware. ] She thinks of me as a child and as... someone who is only playing a role. [ That last part makes her eyes dart away again, as if it's touched on a great insecurity, the words still stinging in her ears. ] But it--- I wish I had known this all sooner, to... keep her from the trouble I bring her. [ Keep her from the pain it apparently brings her for Pyra to simply exist around her. ]