Madoka's gaze moves up to meet the boy's when he says that. For a moment she just stares at him, and then her gaze quietly shifts between Piccolo and Maru, like Madoka is trying hard to think of what the right thing to do here is, even with this weight pressing down on her heart.

She lets go of Maru's arm, but still holds the other's hand. The reason for it is clear enough - it's so she can actually politely bow to Piccolo before uprighting herself and speaking up again.

"I'm sorry, mister Piccolo. I'll work hard so I can become a strong kind person rather than a weak one." After all, it's not like she just wants to hide behind Maru. That's not what their bond is about. Maru makes her stronger by giving her the ability to fight, not just by protecting her. The girl doesn't exactly look like she's cheered up much, but she does at least sound like she genuinely means those words.

It's then that she looks back over to Maru, squeezing his hand slightly. "Hmm, you're right though, Maru.. Let's go, okay?"