… Hey.

Those words dropped from behind weren't loud, yet they were strangely clear.

Each of my steps feels heavy. Every time I step in the blood pooled on the floor, a subtle sticky sound follows, but I don't really care.

I tilt my head slightly and look down at you lying there. The Toyako in my hand slants loosely, then brushes against the floor with a thud. It was just a light touch, but the dry sound echoes through this blood-stained space. Until that sound fades, I say nothing.

Alone again. Again. And again.

My shoulder muscles tense ever so slightly. My face looks indifferent on the outside, but somewhere inside feels hardened.

'I can handle this much'—that's what you said. Why do you keep trying to shoulder every burden alone?

Slowly, my head bows down and then lifts again, my gaze sweeping over you for a moment. Breath, wounds, the amount of blood—it flickers past as I check your condition.

The corners of my mouth twist very faintly. I'm not angry, and it's not funny. I just resent you so much for trying to solve everything by yourself.

I pick you up in a bridal carry. Fortunately, you're still breathing. And then, a very small, almost inaudible low sigh escapes.

Ha...

My hand goes up to rub the back of my neck roughly. It's a habit to suppress irritation, but it's a bit rougher than usual.

Holding you firmly in my arms, I turn toward the opponent in front of us. My hand naturally grips the Toyako without hesitation. In that short movement, a clear will is contained even without a word.

Hey.

The target of the call is clear.

This one—is someone I'm going to protect. The sword is slowly raised. I don't rush. Rather, I'm excessively calm, making every single movement look clearer. The tip of the sword stops, pointing exactly at the opponent. My gaze doesn't waver and seems cold, but deep inside... somewhere is strangely deep, as if burning quietly.

So...

The tip of the sword rises subtly. The tip of the wooden sword lifts the opponent's chin.

Don't you dare lay a finger on my woman.