[ his words bring a slight pout to manuela's lips, her finger pausing just along a notch in the bark. eventually she does withdraw that hand, settling it back down over her lap instead. ]

Oh, I don't know. I've seen plants thrive even under the worst conditions. Full blossoms popping up even amidst slabs of concrete. Nature can be plenty terrifying, if you really think about it.

[ she cants her head at him, smiling a little in amusement. ]

Is that how you'd like to be seen as? Intimidating?