Arc 4 – Chapter 15
After the fierce battle, Jin Yuan, Yusikuna, and Musukoni finally returned to their wooden house.
Inside, Shioinkin was already waiting for them, arms crossed and a grin on his face.
Shioinkin: Ha ha ha! My boys! How was your fireworks festival?
Musukoni: That old man…
Yusikuna: It was the best fireworks ever!
Jin Yuan: Huh... maybe.
They all went to their rooms, exhaustion heavy in the air.
Just then, Yuzurei stepped out, standing in front of Shioinkin with his usual sharp gaze.
Yuzurei: Oi, old man.
Shioinkin: What is it, angry bird?
Yuzurei: I'm bored.
Shioinkin: Bored, huh? Then train, play games, do something. There are plenty of ways to waste time.
Yuzurei: Give me a tough mission.
He said it calmly, resting his hands on the hilts of his dual blades.
Shioinkin: Dummy! It's a mission, not a game!
Yuzurei smiled faintly, a dangerous gleam in his eyes.
Yuzurei: Whatever. I just want to kill criminals.
Shioinkin: I'll tell you when there's one.
With a sigh and a hint of irritation, Yuzurei walked away and shut his door.
---
Meanwhile, in another room—
Jin Yuan returned, his black suit stained with dried blood.
Emily turned instantly, worry flashing in her eyes.
She rushed toward him, her voice trembling.
Emily: What happened!?
She gently cupped his cheek, searching his eyes.
Jin Yuan: I'm fine.
His tone was calm—soft, even—but detached.
Emily: I'm worried...
He didn't respond right away, simply walked into the bathroom to wash up.
When he returned, fresh and quiet as always, he sank onto the couch.
But as Emily turned toward him, her leg struck the edge of the table—she slipped and fell forward.
Their faces stopped just inches apart.
Jin Yuan: ...Oh.
He said it simply, no expression—but her face was already crimson.
Emily: I–I'm sorry...!
Jin Yuan: It's fine. Be careful... you might get hurt again.
There was a faint trace of worry in his voice—rare, fleeting.
Then, just as quickly, his expression turned blank again.
Emily: O-okay...
As she tried to stand, she stumbled once more—but this time, Jin Yuan caught her, helping her up gently.