Theo didn’t like how close this stranger was getting to his sister. Without hesitation, he stepped between them, spreading his arms protectively.

  “No need,” Theo said firmly. “Just tell me how to do the first aid myself, Assashin—or whatever your name is. I’m a good brother. I’ll take care of her.”

  Both Assashin and Soma were taken aback by Theo’s sudden determination. Assashin gave him a small, approving pat on the head before gently guiding him through the steps. Theo’s hands trembled as he saw the wounds up close, tears stinging his eyes. He hadn’t expected his sister to suffer so badly, all for his sake. But even through the shock, he didn’t falter. His small hands worked with surprising steadiness, treating her injuries as if he’d done this before.

  Assashin noticed, surprised by the boy’s skill, but he didn’t comment on it. Instead, he encouraged Theo.

  “You know, you could really master medicine one day. With practice, and with the bond you share with your sister, you could become the perfect healer to keep her standing strong in battle… and maybe the one who gives her the strength to keep fighting.”

  Theo’s face lit up at the idea. He threw himself into Soma’s arms, burying his face against her shoulder. The pain in her body had begun to ease, but it was the warmth of her little brother’s embrace that healed her most. She hugged him back, smiling faintly.

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  “My very own doctor, huh? I’d love that,” she whispered.

  Then, gathering her strength, Soma rose from the bed and turned her sharp gaze toward Assashin.

  “Thank you for encouraging my brother,” she said, voice cold again. “But you still haven’t told us why you came here after discovering who I really am.”

  Assashin scratched his neck, almost sheepishly.

  “Right… I almost forgot. Yes, as you said, I know your true identity. That’s why I came. When I watched you fight yesterday, I saw the hatred—the rage—in your eyes. It was so strong I could barely believe you were the same girl I’d seen before. I realized then… you must have lived through something terrible in your past. And because of that… I want to support you in your goal. If you’ll let me.”

  Soma narrowed her eyes, suspicion flickering in their depths.

  “And what personal reason do you have for offering me this ‘support’?”

  Assashin’s tone softened.

  “If you’re willing to tell me about your painful past, then I’ll tell you my reason in return.”

  Soma glanced at Theo, who gave her a small, reassuring nod. Without a word, she rose and left the room, her steps heavy.

  “Wait—!” Assashin started, but Theo’s small voice stopped him.

  “Sit down, Assashin. Don’t worry about her. You want to hear our story, right? Then listen. If you’re wondering why she left… it’s because of her trauma. Whenever she recalls the past, her body burns up with fever, and she collapses into unconsciousness for hours, sometimes even days. That’s why she can’t face it head-on.”

  Assashin’s face fell. He nodded slowly.

  “I see… I understand. Then I’ll listen carefully. Tell me everything.”