[ he doesn't even make an effort to avoid it; the wild smile and the dark look in his eyes fly off of his face with the slap, as if they were just an attitude he was putting on. In that moment, he realizes that they were, in a sense. He was clinging to that persona because it was safe, at this point - safer than admitting he cares about anyone when he knows none of this can last, less horrible than admitting he was wrong and this isn't like him and it's not what his sister would have wanted. Hikage reels backwards, bringing a hand to his cheek, and stares at her, shaking just slightly. ]

You don't need me. [ he laughs bitterly as he says the words, shaking his head. ] Just kill me and have that person give you a new partner. That would be better for everyone. You're a hero, aren't you?