( that hurts actually, but since he's a masochist it's like... he accepts it as something he deserves. he's a little disheartened that he has to sit in a chair properly, but once he's there, he's holding his one wounded arm against his waist to... pick at it through the fabric of his sleeve with his other. )

The hopes of your students!

( he starts with a smile, thinking back to how lost they were, afraid of the body locked away in the case... afraid of themselves over the concern if they'd be next. they knew nothing about this school really, but it took a little push. )

They were an embarrassment at the start, but... their bonds have grown stronger since then... don't you think so?

( where's his twisted validation? )