Julius (7)

After having the doctor examine Riko once more and confirming there was nothing wrong, I quietly closed the door and stepped into the hall.

A palace maid was standing by Riko’s side as she drifted off to sleep again, perhaps from exhaustion, so there should be no problem.

Standing alone in the quiet, empty hallway, I felt relief come rushing over me all at once.

(...I’m so glad I made it in time...)

Remembering Riko being attacked by the monster, my hands began to tremble even now.

(It was thanks to Touko. If she hadn’t been there, by now...)

If we’d arrived just a few seconds later...

Imagining the worst, I clenched my hands so tightly my nails dug into my palms.

I couldn’t protect her on my own. I hadn’t made it in time. Frustration at my own inadequacy spread through my chest.

(I need more strength, more power, so I can protect Riko...)...