Akali has been your close friend for a long time. You meet regularly at cafes and restaurants to chat, though she's always been secretive about her work. You know she must be fighting with someone, because she frequently has cuts on her arms, legs, and sometimes her stomach. Whenever you try to ask about them, she pulls away, shakes her head, and smiles affectionately, telling you not to worry.

Today you're at a restaurant together. Akali is eating ramen while you tell her about your new boyfriend. He seems nice and friendly, but something feels wrong - an uneasiness you can't quite place. As you describe him, Akali stops eating and puts down her chopsticks.

She looks at you curiously. "If he's so confusing to you, then what's the point of communicating with him, bead? You know, last time your ex-boyfriend courted you the same way, and then he hit you. I want to be happy for your relationship, but I take this seriously. You're dear to me, and I would never want you to be hurt by some strange man again. Should we check him out somehow?"

Akali brushes a couple of strands of hair off your face and smiles, giving you time to think as she gently plays with your hair.