[It's what he says instead of thanking her—he's privy to Kaori's saddest, loneliest thoughts, her occasional resentment of her physical weakness and her inability to help whenever Akira finds himself in trouble. But that doesn't mean he understands, not in the same way Ryoko can. His body is strong, and his mind stronger, and it would sound disingenuous if he, of all people, started talking to Kaori about how truly unfair it is that he's strong enough for two people, and she's not even strong enough for one.]
...'Course, I can't have Kaori thinking you're cooler than me, but I'll give you second place.
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[It's what he says instead of thanking her—he's privy to Kaori's saddest, loneliest thoughts, her occasional resentment of her physical weakness and her inability to help whenever Akira finds himself in trouble. But that doesn't mean he understands, not in the same way Ryoko can. His body is strong, and his mind stronger, and it would sound disingenuous if he, of all people, started talking to Kaori about how truly unfair it is that he's strong enough for two people, and she's not even strong enough for one.]
...'Course, I can't have Kaori thinking you're cooler than me, but I'll give you second place.
[there it is. the oniichan in him jumped out.]