Fractures

Night had settled over the house like a soft veil. The moonlight filtered through the paper screens, tracing pale lines across the tatami. Akari lay on her futon, eyes open, thoughts circling the same quiet worry — Haruto.

He'd looked fine during dinner — smiling faintly, trying to hide his exhaustion — but there was a weakness in his eyes she couldn't ignore. His hands had trembled slightly when he lifted his cup.

She turned onto her side, staring at the dim ceiling. "Please don't let it return… not after all this time," she thought.

A gentle knock broke the silence.

"...Haru?" she called softly. "Door's open."

The door slid open — but it wasn't Haruto.

"Renjiro," she said, sitting up as the tall man stepped in quietly. His coat was still on, dusted with the night air.

"Sorry to bother you this late," he said in his usual calm tone, taking a seat.

"I wasn't asleep," Akari replied, her voice carrying a note of fatigue. "What's wrong?"

Renjiro rested his elbows on his knees, expression steady but serious. "I just received orders. There's a mission tomorrow night — a classified one."

Akari frowned slightly. "So you'll be leaving again?"

He nodded. "Yes. I might not be able to bring the triplets back from the academy tomorrow. If possible, I'll return home first and drop them off before leaving. Otherwise… you'll have to pick them up."

"I can handle that," she said softly. "How long will this one take?"

Renjiro looked down briefly. "Could be a few days. Maybe more."

A silence hung between them. Then Akari gave a faint, reassuring smile. "Alright. Don't worry about things here — I'll manage."

Renjiro's gaze softened for the first time. "You always say that like it's simple."

She gave a small laugh. "Because someone has to make it sound that way."

He stood, sliding the door open halfway. "Get some rest. You'll have your hands full tomorrow."

"I know," she murmured, watching him go. "Good luck, Renjiro."

When the door closed, quiet returned. The faint wind brushed against the shoji, carrying the sounds of the night — soft, distant, peaceful.

Akari lay back down, her thoughts still on Haruto. The boy had grown stronger since his recovery, but something about his eyes lately reminded her of those long, fearful nights years ago…

Then — a knock again.

"Renjiro?" she called gently. "Forget something?"

No answer.

The door slid open halfway — then shut quickly.

Before she could react, small footsteps rushed toward her — and Haruto suddenly threw himself into her arms, trembling.

"Haru—!" Akari's arms caught him immediately. "Hey, what's wrong?"

He clutched her clothes tightly, his small body shaking. "Aka… I—I saw it again…"

Akari's heart tightened. "Saw what?"

"The fire… and that red light— it was everywhere… I thought it was happening again…"

She hugged him closer, her voice low and soothing. "It's okay, Haru. You're here now. Just a dream."

"But it felt so real…" he whispered, tears spilling down his cheek.

"I know." She brushed his hair gently, fingers trembling only slightly. "It's over. You're safe. Sleep, alright?"

He didn't answer — just nodded weakly, still clinging to her.

Akari looked past him toward the faint moonlight seeping through the window. Her expression softened — then darkened with quiet fear.

The same nightmare… the same signs.

She held Haruto closer, whispering like a prayer, "Please… not again."

Outside, the wind shifted — cold and uneasy — like the world itself was holding its breath.

Akari rose quietly, sliding open the closet beside her futon. She pulled out a neatly folded futon and spread it right next to her own.

"Here," she said softly, smoothing out the sheets. "Sleep here tonight, Haru."

Haruto nodded silently and settled down beside her, their futons almost touching. The moonlight slipping through the shoji windows bathed the room in a calm, silver glow.

For a while, neither spoke — just the sound of crickets and the soft creak of the old wooden floor beneath the night breeze.

Then Akari turned her head slightly toward him. "You're not sleepy anymore?"

Haruto's eyes stayed fixed on the ceiling. His voice was quiet, almost lost in the dark. "I am… but I was just thinking."

"About what?" she asked gently.

He took a breath, his fingers curling slightly into the blanket. "Do you think I can… become who I really wanted to be?"

Akari blinked softly, then smiled. "Of course you can. You've already gone through more than most ever will, Haru. You're stronger than you think."

Haruto stayed quiet for a few seconds — then his breath trembled. "Strong…?" His voice cracked. "If I was strong, then why couldn't I save Enruto… four years ago?"

Akari's expression softened instantly. "Haru…"

He turned his face away, his eyes glistening. "I keep telling myself it wasn't my fault, but every time I remember that day… it feels like I betrayed him. Like I chose to live while he…" His words broke, his voice barely a whisper. "I gave myself more value than him… and I hate it."

Akari slowly sat up, leaning closer, her voice gentle but firm. "Don't say that. You didn't betray Enruto. You didn't choose to live — you survived. That's what he would've wanted."

"But if I was strong enough," Haruto said, tears sliding down his cheeks, "he wouldn't have died in the first place. He… he trusted me."

Akari reached out, brushing a tear from his cheek with her thumb. "And you still honor that trust every single day, Haru. By living, by trying, by carrying his memory with you."

He stared at her for a moment, his breathing uneven. "Aka… I just don't want to forget him."

"You won't," she whispered. "People like Enruto… they never fade from you. They live through the choices you make, through the strength you keep finding."

Haruto wiped his eyes, voice breaking again. "Then… I'll try. I'll try to be stronger… not for me, but for him."

Akari gave him a faint smile. "That's my Haru."

The room fell quiet again — except for the soft sound of his breathing as his tears slowed. Akari stayed still, watching him drift into sleep, her own eyes heavy with a quiet ache.

"Rest, Haru," she murmured. "You've carried enough for tonight."

Akari blinked her eyes open and glanced toward the small clock on the shelf. The soft ticking echoed through the quiet room.

"Twelve already?" she whispered, sighing. "It's too late… I need to sleep before morning comes."

She turned slightly on her futon, pulling the blanket higher — but then froze.

From beside her, faint murmurs broke the stillness. Haruto's head twitched slightly on his pillow, his brows drawn tight in a restless dream.

"...I gotta be strong… train… under Shizue… I'll… do it…" he mumbled, voice shaky and uneven.

Akari's chest ached softly at the sound. Even in his sleep, he was pushing himself — haunted by thoughts far too heavy for his age.

She shifted closer and brushed her fingers gently through his hair, smoothing it back from his forehead. His breathing trembled for a moment, and she felt a single tear slip from the corner of his eye, tracing down his cheek.

"Haru…" she whispered, her voice barely audible. "You're already strong. You just don't see it yet."

Haruto's body eased slightly, his expression softening as her hand moved through his hair. He unconsciously reached closer, resting against her arm — a small, instinctive gesture of comfort.

Akari smiled faintly, the exhaustion in her own eyes mixing with quiet tenderness. She leaned her head back against the wall, her fingers still idly brushing his hair.

"Sleep well, Haru…" she murmured softly. "You've carried enough for today."

Within minutes, the rhythmic breathing of both filled the room, the night slipping silently toward dawn.

After breakfast, the house filled with the soft shuffle of movement — bowls clinking, chairs sliding, voices mixing.

Renjiro placed his chopsticks down first, his expression composed. "Thanks for the meal," he said, bowing slightly before standing.

Akari looked up. "You're heading out already?"

He nodded. "Yeah. I want to report early — and get the mission details before sundown."

Kaito frowned. "But you said you'd walk with us today, Brother Renjiro."

Renjiro gave a small smile, resting a hand on Kaito's head. "Change of plans. Big Sister Akari will take you three today."

"Eh?" Ayame puffed her cheeks. "That's no fun! You walk faster!"

Renjiro chuckled softly. "I'll make it up to you next time."

Haruto, sitting quietly, stared at Renjiro's packed gear — the small rolled scrolls tied to his side, the faint glow of the crystal mark on his gloves. "Where's the mission this time?" he asked.

Renjiro looked at him, his expression softening. "Far north. Beyond the dunes. Might be gone for a while."

Akari's gaze flickered to Haruto briefly, watching his face fall just a little.

Renjiro noticed too. He crouched down slightly, resting a hand on Haruto's shoulder. "Hey… it's just another mission. I'll be back before you even start slacking off again."

Haruto smirked faintly. "I don't slack off."

"Mm-hmm," Renjiro said, smiling as he stood up.

When he moved to the door, Akari followed, speaking low. "Be careful. Please."

Renjiro adjusted his cloak, sliding the door open. "Always am."

The door closed with a soft click, and the sound of his footsteps faded into the morning breeze.

Silence lingered for a few seconds. Then Ayame spoke up, "Big Sister Akari! Should we get ready now?"

Akari blinked out of thought and nodded. "Right. Pack your things — we'll leave in ten minutes."

Minutes later, the four of them stepped outside. The morning air was crisp, and the path to the academy was bathed in soft sunlight.

Kaito walked ahead, swinging his bag like a sword. "I bet I'll reach the gates first!"

"Not fair!" Ayame shouted, chasing after him.

Haruto trailed behind, walking beside Akari. For a while, neither said a word — only the sound of their sandals against the dirt road.

Then Haruto glanced up. "Aka… do you think Brother Ren will be okay?"

Akari smiled gently, looking ahead. "He's stronger than you think. And smarter too. He'll be fine."

Haruto hummed softly. "Yeah…"

But his tone carried a quiet worry — the kind that stayed even after you tried to hide it.

They reached the academy gates just as the bell rang in the distance.

"Go on," Akari said, bending slightly to fix Haruto's collar. "Don't make Daigo Sensei chase you again."

Haruto laughed faintly. "I won't."

Kaito and Ayame were already halfway inside, waving.

"Bye, Big Sister Akari!"

"Bye, Aka!" Haruto called, running after them.

Akari waved back, her smile steady — but when she lowered her hand, her expression softened.

Renjiro… be safe, she thought quietly, before turning away and heading down the path that led toward the hospital, the morning sun glinting faintly against her hair as the streets slowly came alive.

Akari pushed open the glass doors of the local hospital, the cool air brushing against her face. Evening lights reflected on the polished floor as she walked down the long corridor, her footsteps echoing softly. The building was unusually quiet—too quiet for its size.

Her eyes scanned the hallway numbers until she stopped in front of a wooden door with a metal plate:

Dr. Ken Hoshikawa
Head Researcher – Medical & Energetic Studies

She straightened her posture, took a breath, and knocked twice.

"Come in," a calm voice replied.

Akari slid the door open.

Dr. Ken was standing near his desk, stacking files into neat piles. His white coat hung loosely, and his glasses were slightly crooked—clearly he'd been working for hours.

"Akari," he greeted with a small smile. "It's been a while. What brings you here?"

Akari stepped in and closed the door behind her.

"I think…" she hesitated, eyes tightening, "Haruto's sickness might be coming back. I came here to ask what should be done."

Ken's expression shifted instantly—calm, but very serious.

"You don't need to panic," he said, walking closer. "I've gathered a lot of information since the last incident. If the sickness is returning, Haruto won't suffer like before. Not this time."

Akari exhaled in relief, even if worry still lingered.

"But," Ken added, "it's better if you bring Haruto for a proper checkup. I need to run a few updated tests."

Akari bit her lip.

"There's a problem… Renjiro is leaving on mission tomorrow. That leaves only Ayame and Kaito at home. It's risky to leave them alone for too long. But… I'll try to bring Haruto."

Ken nodded slowly.
"Good. The sooner, the better."

Akari looked at the neatly stacked files on his desk.

"By the way… you said you gathered information. What did you find?"

Ken didn't answer immediately. Instead, he walked to the door, locked it, and then lowered the blinds. When he turned back to her, the air felt heavier.

"That information," he said quietly, "is extremely crucial… and dangerous."

Akari narrowed her eyes.

"Dangerous? For Haruto?"

Ken nodded.

"It contains everything related to his growth, his potential… and the reasons behind his sickness at such a young age. If this knowledge falls into the wrong hands, Haruto might be seen as a weapon rather than a child."

Akari's heart dropped.

"And who knows about it?"

Ken held up two fingers.

"Just me… and the clan leaders of Hoshikawa and Homura."

Akari blinked. "You didn't inform Enkage or Renshi?"

Ken's jaw tightened.

"No. Because I don't trust them. I fear they might use Haruto if they understand what he truly is."

Silence filled the room for a moment.

Akari felt her stomach twist.

"Ken… is it really that serious?"

Ken met her eyes directly.

"Yes. That's why before I show you anything… you must make a decision."
His voice lowered.
"Are you prepared to know the truth behind Haruto's condition? Even if it changes the way you see him forever?"

The academy classroom buzzed with the low murmur of students, though most were focused on their notes. Sunlight spilled through the tall windows, illuminating the rows of desks and the polished wooden floor. Today's lesson was in full swing.

Daigo stood at the front, chalk in hand, explaining the techniques of chakra control.

At the back of the room, Haruto sat calmly, legs crossed, pulling out his tiffin box. No one else was eating—just him.

He opened it slowly and began eating, the soft crunch of bread echoing slightly in the quiet classroom.

As he reached the last bite, he noticed Daigo turning around, eyes narrowing at him. Without hesitation, Haruto shoved the last piece into his mouth, chewing with deliberate calm.

Daigo blinked, annoyed.
"Haruto! Are you seriously—"

Haruto looked at him, then, in a playful gesture, gave the bite back, holding it out with a straight face.

The entire classroom erupted into laughter.

Daigo pinched the bridge of his nose.
"You little—"

Before he could continue, the bell rang, signaling the start of break.

Students began gathering their things.

Daigo shook his head, muttering under his breath.
"Hopeless…"
He adjusted his glasses and left the classroom, chalk in hand, stepping into the corridor while the students began moving toward the doors.

But just as the first few reached the door, CLICK.

The classroom door swung shut.

Everyone turned.

Souta stood by the door, hand gripping the handle, his face pale.
"Why are the seniors coming towards our class?"

The room went silent, every student glancing nervously at one another.

Haruto blinked slowly, tilting his head, saying nothing.

Misaki leaned close to Souta, whispering nervously,
"I knew it… the seniors bully that kid in Hina's class. Why are they coming here?"

Arashi, sitting calmly near the front, glanced at Haruto.
"Haruto… go hide. I'll handle this."

Haruto nodded silently and slipped quietly behind a row of desks, making himself as small as possible.

The door swung open. Five seniors entered, their footsteps heavy and confident.

The tallest one—clearly the leader—scanned the room, voice sharp.
"Where is the red-haired kid?"

Arashi stood slowly, hands folded calmly in front of him.
"I suggest you leave this class. And I hope you know whose class this is."

One of the other seniors scoffed.
"Stop acting like you're the leader of the class. What's Daigo-sensei even going to do, huh?"

Arashi glanced toward Daigo, who had already left, then back at the seniors.
"I myself am the class leader."

The tallest senior repeated, impatient.
"Just say where he is, and we'll leave."

Arashi remained calm, almost smiling.
"There is certainly no red-haired guy in our class."

One of the seniors, pointing towards Kaito, whispered to the leader:
"Boss… see over there? I think that's the kid."

The leader smacked the student on the head.
"You fool! That's lavender, not red."

Another senior shrugged.
"He's absent. Let's leave."

The leader growled and motioned to go.

But just as they turned, one of the group added quietly,

"Boss, that lavender-haired and silver-haired kids are the red-haired one's siblings."

The boss of the seniors stepped toward Ayame, the silver-haired girl, and grabbed her hand.

Kaito immediately dashed forward.
"Leave my sister alone!" he shouted.

The boss pushed Kaito aside, sending him stumbling backward.

Ayame struggled to pull her hand free but couldn't.

A sharp, familiar voice echoed from the shadows.
"Leave my sister!"

Nothing happened—then Haruto stepped out from his hiding spot. His red-tinted hair flickered slightly, and his eyes glowed faintly.

He dashed forward and struck the boss, sending him back.

The boss wiped his mouth, smirking.
"I wasn't planning to bother your sister… but it seems you're eager to step in."

Yuna smirked, arms crossed.
"Trying to be tough?"

Souta stepped forward calmly.
"Stop acting like you're untouchable… you're not as cold as you think."

The boss's expression hardened.
"You'll see what we'll do to you all!"

He lunged at Haruto, but Arashi leapt in, hitting the boss's side with his foot and sending him off balance.

Amaya quickly closed the classroom door, securing it.

Student-Senior Pairs

Kaito & Ayame vs. Senior 1: Kaito blocked and redirected every move while Ayame used her agility to dodge and counter, working in perfect synchronization.

Souta & Yuna vs. Senior 2: Souta used calm, precise movements to control the senior, while Yuna feinted and moved quickly, keeping the opponent constantly off balance.

Izumi & Misaki vs. Senior 3: Izumi struck with speed and accuracy while Misaki coordinated, creating openings and keeping the senior on the defensive.

Haruto & Amaya vs. Senior 4: Haruto moved with lightning-fast reflexes, striking directly and dodging attacks, while Amaya stayed at range, using thrown objects to control space and support him.

Arashi vs. Boss: Arashi moved like a shadow, flipping and slanting through the air, keeping the boss off balance with agile kicks and rapid movements.

The classroom became a whirlwind of motion. Desks slid across the floor as students vaulted over them, ducked under chairs, and coordinated their strikes and dodges with precision.

Haruto's crimson energy flared subtly, boosting his speed and reflexes. Every move was precise, almost like a dance, as he and Amaya carefully controlled the space against Senior 4.

Arashi and the boss clashed like titans, each movement echoing with speed and power, while the other student pairs worked together flawlessly to outmaneuver their opponents.

The battle unfolded like an anime sequence: fast, fluid, and full of energy, every student showcasing their unique abilities and teamwork.

Ayame stumbled, thrown off balance by Senior 1. She fell back, and Kaito quickly moved near her to protect her.

Haruto, seeing Ayame in trouble, left his position against Senior 4 to check on her. Amaya tried to provide support from a distance, using her long-range attacks, but she was overwhelmed. Izumi and Misaki rushed in to help but were quickly pushed aside by the coordinated seniors.

Souta and Yuna, focused on Senior 2, were caught off guard when Senior 4 joined in and were forced back as well. Even Arashi, who had been soloing the boss, was thrown off balance and staggered to the floor.

With the students distracted and struggling, the seniors coordinated perfectly. They closed in on Haruto.

The boss reached out and pulled a few strands of Haruto's hair. The sudden tug sent a sharp sting through him. Haruto's eyes widened as he stared at the broken strands, feeling a deep pang of frustration and hurt.

Before he could recover, the seniors pressed their advantage. They overpowered him, pushing him to the ground and holding him back. Haruto struggled, but the combined force of the five seniors was too much to resist at the moment.

The boss glared down at him.
"I wasn't planning to harm your sister earlier… but you certainly wanted to step in."

Haruto's fists clenched as he stared at the strands in his hand, his pride wounded. The other students were scattered, trying to recover, while the seniors prepared to leave, confident they had dominated the classroom.

The room fell silent for a moment, tension thick in the air. Haruto's focus remained on his hair, a symbol of his strength and the challenge he now faced.

The seniors began moving toward the door, confident they had the upper hand. Haruto sat on his knees, his gaze fixed on the broken strands of hair in his hand.

Suddenly, his eyes started to glow a faint red. A single tear slid down his cheek, but his resolve only hardened. Slowly, he rose to his feet, energy radiating from him.

Before any senior could react, Haruto dashed forward and struck the boss with a powerful, controlled punch. The force sent the boss staggering backward.

The other students—Kaito, Ayame, Arashi, Amaya, Izumi, Misaki, Souta, and Yuna—immediately jumped in, surrounding the remaining seniors to prevent them from interfering.

In a blur of movement, Haruto grabbed the boss by the hair and slammed his head down onto the table, the impact sharp but controlled. Without hesitation, he straddled the boss, keeping him pinned firmly, and delivered a series of precise, controlled punches to the head. Each strike was measured, a disciplined release of his anger and authority.

Then, Haruto shifted his weight fully onto the boss, sitting firmly and maintaining his hold. He began striking with controlled force, each punch precise and deliberate, a disciplined display of his strength and authority. His movements were measured, channeling his anger and determination without crossing into reckless harm, making it clear that he was in complete control of the situation.

At that moment, Daigo Sensei burst into the classroom, eyes wide with shock.
"Enough! Step back, all of you!" he commanded.

The students immediately stopped, releasing the seniors. The boss and the others scrambled to leave, clearly shaken by the display of teamwork and Haruto's power.

The classroom was silent, the tension slowly fading. Haruto sat on the floor, breathing heavily, still staring at the broken strands in his hand, his eyes glowing faintly, determination blazing even more fiercely than before.

The classroom was quiet, almost eerily so. Dust hung in the air, desks were overturned, and notebooks lay scattered across the floor. The echoes of the fight with the seniors still lingered, pressing down on every student.

Haruto sat quietly, fists clenched, jaw tight, still processing the chaos. His silver eyes shone faintly in the dim light, reflecting a mix of anger, guilt, and relief.

Ayame moved among the group, calm and measured, checking on each student. She knelt beside Izumi, giving a reassuring nod. She helped Yuna adjust her sleeve, then patted Misaki's shoulder softly. Even in the middle of the mess, she maintained a composed presence, quietly ensuring everyone was alright.

Kaitō, though shaken, stayed close to Haruto, watching his siblings and friends with concern. Amaya leaned against a desk, rubbing the back of her neck, trying to hide the sting from the blows she had taken. Souta and Yuna were on the floor, catching their breath, eyes wide, hearts still racing.

No one spoke. The silence was thick, heavy with unspoken guilt and tension.

The silence stretched on, heavy and suffocating. The students remained still, eyes on the floor, hearts racing, still shaken from the fight.

Finally, the quiet was broken by a calm, measured voice — not angry, but carrying weight:

Daigo:
"Enough. Look at me. I want every one of you to tell me… what were you thinking? Do you understand how dangerous that fight could have become?"

The room shifted slightly, but still no one spoke. Only the sound of ragged breathing filled the space.

Arashi finally stepped forward, his posture straight, shoulders tense. He met Daigo's gaze without flinching, voice steady but heavy with responsibility:

Arashi:
"Sensei… it's my fault. I couldn't be the leader you expected me to be. I… I failed to guide everyone properly. If anyone needs punishment, it should be me. No one else. They did nothing wrong."

His words hung in the air like a tangible weight. The other students glanced at him, some relieved, some ashamed, but none contradicted him. Haruto's fists unclenched slightly, Ayame's eyes softened as she looked at him, and Kaitō gave a small nod of understanding.

Daigo's eyes softened as he looked at Arashi, then slowly swept across the entire class — each bruised, exhausted, but still standing.

Daigo:
"Arashi… thank you for taking responsibility. That shows strength. But understand this — none of you are alone in what happens here. You're a team. You're a family. And I… I care for every one of you like my own children."

The room seemed to breathe at his words. Ayame's calm eyes glistened slightly as she looked at her friends. Haruto's jaw loosened, a flicker of relief and guilt passing over his face. Kaitō's hand brushed against Ayame's shoulder, silently grateful she was alright.

Daigo knelt to their level, voice softening even more:

Daigo:
"I didn't teach you only to fight. I didn't teach you only to grow strong. I teach you because I care — because I want you to understand what it truly means to protect, to trust, and to stand by each other. Strength isn't just about striking first or harder… it's about knowing when to fight, and when to protect those you care for."

Haruto's fists unclenched completely now, eyes glimmering. He whispered, barely audible:

Haruto:
"…Sensei… I'm sorry."

Ayame moved closer, gently resting a hand on his arm, reassuring him without words. Kaitō gave a small, appreciative nod. One by one, the rest of the students — Yuna, Souta, Misaki, Izumi, Amaya, Arashi — stepped forward, surrounding Daigo.

All together, voices soft but sincere:
"We're sorry, Sensei."

Daigo's tired, worn face broke into a gentle smile. He pulled them into a warm, encompassing hug. For a long moment, no one moved — the weight of the fight and fear melted into trust, comfort, and the unspoken promise of loyalty to each other.

Daigo:
"We grow from today. Not by repeating mistakes, but by learning from them — and by knowing you are never alone. Remember that. Always."

The faint chime of the bell echoed through the room, but it went unnoticed. For once, the classroom wasn't just a place to train. It was a sanctuary, a home, and a reminder that even in chaos, their bond — with each other and with their sensei — would remain unbroken.

Haruto glanced at Ayame and Kaitō, a small, relieved smile tugging at his lips. Arashi relaxed slightly, proud of his friends. And for the first time since the fight, the students truly felt the strength of their family, united and unshakable.

The academy bell rang, and the students began packing their bags, voices echoing faintly through the corridor.

Akari walked through the academy gates, scanning the courtyard for the triplets. She spotted a few students lingering around, but before she could call for them, a familiar voice came from behind.

Daigo:
"Akari! Over here."

She turned to see Daigo standing just outside the teachers’ lounge, holding the door open slightly as if he’d been waiting for her.

Akari raised a brow.
"Daigo? Is something wrong?"

Daigo shook his head gently.
"Come inside for a moment. I need to speak with you privately."

Without further explanation, he stepped back into the lounge, clearly expecting her to follow.
Akari hesitated only a second before entering — Daigo never called her like this unless it was serious.

The door closed behind them, and the noise of the academy faded away.

Akari stood straight, unsure why he had called her in so urgently.

Daigo exhaled, choosing his words carefully.

Daigo:
“Akari… I want to ask about Haruto’s current medical report.”

Akari’s eyes widened slightly.
She shook her head softly.

Akari:
“I’m sorry… I can’t tell you. I’m restricted from sharing his medical details.”

Daigo nodded slowly, not surprised.

Daigo:
“You don’t need to tell me everything. I’m only asking one thing…
Are his reports improving?
Or are they still the same as before?”

Akari hesitated.
Her fingers tightened around the file she carried.

Akari:
“…I think it’s worse.”

Daigo’s eyes softened but remained serious.
"I see… thank you for telling me, Akari."

He paused, choosing his words carefully.
"I also spoke with Yuna. She told me everything that happened during the break in class — about Haruto’s eyes glowing before he lost control."

Akari’s stomach tightened, realizing just how serious the situation had become.

Daigo continued, voice low but firm:
"I want you to take a careful look at him. Please check with Dr. Ken. Make sure you’re watching over him at all times… don’t leave him unattended. Take care of him quietly, without drawing attention."

Akari nodded solemnly.
"Understood. I’ll make sure he’s safe."

Daigo’s expression grew heavier.
"Haruto’s father once told me about an incident at home — it wasn’t catastrophic, but still serious. In the five years I’ve taught him, nothing like that has happened… until today. I don’t know exactly what triggered him this time. Be careful, Akari."

He gave a firm nod, as if sealing the instruction.
"That’s all for now. You can pick up the triplets and bring them with you. We’ll meet again later."

Akari bowed respectfully.
"Yes… thank you, Daigo."

With that, she turned to leave, her mind already calculating how to safely take the triplets and check on Haruto without alarming anyone.

Akari entered the classroom and called to the triplets.
"Alright, everyone… time to go."

The triplets quickly gathered their things, following her out of the classroom. Akari gently guided Haruto by the shoulder, keeping a careful eye on him.

As they walked along the academy path toward the hospital, Kaitō frowned, glancing at the direction.
"Big sister… this isn’t the way of going home, is it?"

Ayame smirked and nudged him playfully.
"Noo… is she kidnapping us?"

Akari smiled softly, keeping her posture straight as they walked.
"Yes… I’m kidnapping you all. And taking you to the hospital."

Haruto’s eyes widened in surprise.
"Hospital…? For what?"

Akari gave him a reassuring look.
"Dr. Ken wants to check on you — just to make sure you’re alright. Nothing to worry about."

Ayame rolled her eyes, pretending to be annoyed but secretly curious, while Kaitō reluctantly followed, trusting Akari’s lead.

The group continued walking quietly, the academy fading behind them as Akari focused on keeping the triplets close and preparing for the checkup at the hospital.

After a short walk from the academy, Akari and the triplets arrived at the local hospital. The building stood quiet, the evening sun reflecting off its windows.

Akari led them inside. Haruto’s steps were slow, still processing the events from the academy fight, while Ayame and Kaitō stayed close, keeping an eye on him.

They reached Dr. Ken’s office. The doctor, standing behind his desk, looked up and gave a small, reassuring nod.

Dr. Ken:
"Ah, Akari. You’ve brought them safely."

Akari nodded.
"Yes, Dr. Ken. I wanted you to check Haruto, please."

Haruto stepped forward, slightly tense, as Dr. Ken began the examination. He checked his vitals, examined his posture, and observed him carefully. After a few moments, Dr. Ken leaned back, expression calm but focused.

Dr. Ken:
"Haruto’s reports show no symptoms of the sickness. Everything is fine — his body is stable, vitals are normal, and there’s nothing abnormal in his checkup. You don’t need to worry."

Akari let out a soft sigh of relief.
"Thank you, Dr. Ken. That’s… a relief."

Haruto glanced at Dr. Ken, a hint of a small smile appearing. Ayame and Kaitō exchanged glances, feeling reassured as well.

Dr. Ken handed Akari the detailed report.
"Keep monitoring him, of course, but for now… he’s doing well. No complications."

Akari nodded, carefully storing the report. She looked at the triplets and Haruto, determination in her eyes.
"Let’s head home. You all need some rest after today."

The group turned to leave the hospital, the tension from the academy fight slowly easing as they made their way back, the sun dipping lower in the sky.