[ he flinches at the mention of the crest worms, a hunted, panicked look taking over the good side of his face. for a moment, he considers trying to flee-- but he knows he wouldn't get far, and what would be the point? besides, he seems to be.. concerned, which is something so foreign that kariya isn't sure how to respond. why would he care? he's a stranger. and anyway, everyone knows the matou family magic is.. wrong.

he shakes his head, a small, mute gesture, arm tightening around his knees as dozens, even hundreds of tiny mouths devour him from the inside. ]

It's too late. And.. and anyway, I couldn't. Not as long as there's.. some chance. [ his breath hitches, vision hazing again as tears rise, and he ducks his head to hide them. after what he's been through, he's not sure he has the capacity to be humiliated by something like this, but.. ] I know that I-- I can't help Sakura on my own anymore. But.. if I can even be a distraction.. If Zouken is entertained by me, then.. then he'll leave her alone.