[ athena lets herself be moved, much like how a doll would. she's clearly very upset, but it's not the same now as it was a week ago in the dark parts of the colony. and athena's quick to cheer up now, which is a miracle in itself.

the touch makes her hairs in her body stand up, and a small percentage of her was terribly surprised by the contact, but it was easy enough to let go. for someone who talks a big game about strength and protecting people, she herself can be so sensitive. but at least she's true to herself in times like these.

merlin's always been warm, and it's something that she really likes. she hasn't had a chance to take in how warm he can truly be, but this might seem like a good opportunity to. and she needs the warmth of somebody right now, too. especially after talking about her death again. she's been good at keeping it a secret from some people, but she knows that she should be more open about it.

so she lets herself get pulled, and she even moves an inch closer just so twisting her body slightly wouldn't hurt her side. she lets silence permeate the room for a bit until she speaks in a whisper: ]

That's true... Though I probably won't try anymore. [ lies. she's way too competitive to not try and win anything. ] I'll just try and do things my own way.

I think I might be happier that way, anyway.