[Much like an agitated cat, Marik puffs up slightly and grunts in response as he thinks on what to say. Having support at that age... It hits too close to home for him. He lifts Oba up to hold him closer, really not wanting to admit the similarities he's finding between himself and Bede.

He didn't need support (just needed to use his brother for everything) and was capable of starting a criminal empire by himself at that age. Surely Bede can manage by himself. Or something.]

I'd rather fight someone I... assume isn't going to act like Whitney. I understand psychological tactics in battle can be good but dealing with someone who displays an ego li-

[He cuts himself short, pursing his lips and looking like a guilty child.

Foot in mouth again. Chen looks back at him with a sympathetic expression. Marik sucks up his pride and does his best not to fully admit what he's feeling but leave enough of a hint for Allura to get what he's saying.]

... He just rubs me the wrong way.