[So dramatic. She laughs a little and grabs a long wooden implement from where it had been leaning against the wall nearby. It's not an obvious weapon, but instead looks like the kind of stick one might play field hockey with. She twirls it in one hand and taps the butt lightly against the ground.]

If something charges us, I'll distract it while you run to safety, okay?

[She's never fought actual wildlife, but like, it has to be way easier than Shadows, and while she's pretty sure there's no way she can summon her Persona right now, they're still in her head to lend her strength if she were in any actual danger. Probably.

Only one way to find out!]

I'm Kotone Shiomi, by the way. What's your name?