Kaede Itsuhara

Scene – Kaede Protecting Hajime & Akari Heavy rain drenched the ruins of the warehouse. Hajime had just risen after being thrown down, his eyes glowing red with rage, still out of control.* Akari watched her figurative older brother, trembling but ready to help.* In the distance, new enemies appeared, thinking it was the perfect moment to strike. Suddenly, from the shadows, Kaede appeared:

Kaede: “Don’t touch them…! I’ll handle this.”

The enemies laughed, but Kaede vanished into the shadows, approaching silently. With incredible speed, she stabbed each enemy with her knives and short swords, disappearing before they could react.

Enemy: “W-What…!?!”

Akari watched Kaede, amazed but also scared:

Akari: “K-Kaede-san…! Amazing…!”

Kaede glanced briefly, her gaze sharp but calm:

Kaede: “Don’t be afraid, little one. I carry Yukari’s will… and I will protect you.”

Hajime, still half out of control, saw Kaede attacking enemies from the other side and calmed slightly. Yet the instincts inherited from Yukari still burned inside him, ready to rage if needed. Kaede then moved swiftly, forming a safe path for Hajime and Akari to retreat while continuing her attacks:

Kaede (in her mind): “Yukari… I will keep my promise. Your little brother and sister… I will protect them.”

After the enemies were defeated, Kaede held Hajime and Akari in a safe spot, her breathing still heavy.

Akari: “Thank you… Kaede-san…!”

Kaede only bowed slightly, her red eyes still sharp, but there was a hint of gentleness.

Kaede: “Now, go. It’s safe here.”

Hajime looked at Kaede, realizing that his sister’s friend truly was Yukari’s shadow and legacy, and a protector they could rely on.