Raven steps forward, drawing a breath. His Shadow materializes beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

It's going to be okay. They've done this before.

Raven speaks first. "Wolf, I understand that this isn't ideal, but if you accept your Shadow, we can avoid unwanted escalation. Deny it, and we'll have no choice but to fight."

"But we will fight!" Shiro hastily adds. "You're worth fighting for. Just, please... Don't push us away, and don't try to hide from yourself."