[ doesn't matter how close the boy leans, riddle's not budging. they could be touching noses and he still wouldn't flinch. there's no reason as to why he should bend a knee, physically or metaphorically, to someone who thinks of themselves as a puppet.

you can be a puppet, but you don't have to be a puppet.

that being said. ]

I am indeed.

[ and then he huffs. ]

And of course it doesn't, but we can be puppets to other things. The desires and whims of others, lofty expectations set by those who have the best intentions but ultimately fail...

[ the rosy haired housewarden tilts his head upward. ]

... but that's why we have to be strong.