[ Much like when Sephiroth cracks a joke, it feels like a miracle when he cracks a smile. It's a little thing, barely there but very real all the same. It's a good look for him, Luka thinks.

(Perhaps this isn't the first time he's thought such a thing.) ]

Dunno what someone like me could do to protect someone like you, but... well, I'd sure try.

[ They're friends, aren't they? That's what friends do.

Luka takes that offered hand, getting to his feet despite the protests of aching muscle. ]

If I didn't know any better, I'd never be able to guess that you just took a lighting bolt straight to the face.