"Whoa, whoa, it's okay!" He's got his hands up, half to comfort her and half for defense. "We don't have to tell him, okay? This can be our secret."

Shit. Shit. What the hell hold does this guy have over her, that she'd be willing to name him as a shinki but won't let him meet her Sensei? Gojyo runs a hand through his hair, brain whirring.

Is she not safe? Is that it?

"But Votelli, honey, if he's threatened you you've got to let me help." He glances up at the trees, their canopy gone still. "I know you're strong, kiddo, but you don't have to face him alone."