But you started it all. Why should I back down to a bully, Miss? Me, I am not afraid of you. Not of you, or Lloyd or Flagg, or Nadine. And dumb? No, I am a lot of things, but never dumb! Nadine said -

[She scowls. Of course Nadine told her what she wanted to hear. Eponine really is a dumbass.]

Well then, you are stupid. Monsieur Nero, he finds me there. He said I'm the prettiest girl he has ever seen. He says how ugly you are, how you deserve to die - how I ought to kill you for what you're doing to me. And he gives me a dress for your blood and for my - well. You know the deals I make well enough, don't you, Miss?

[Her voice has hardened to a sulk.]