78 78. Under the Name of Kensei (1/2)

I saw Iris off to the battle and headed towards Aria.

Aria, who was still bound and unable to move, looked at me as if she couldn't believe what she was seeing.

”Why? Why ......?

”What do you mean, 'why'?

”Because you're going to help Iris, aren't you ......?

That's the question Aria asked.

I thought that since I was here, it would be me who would fight Kufilio.

But it's Iris who will cross swords again. I know she's already over the edge.

And that's why I let her fight.

You're the one I'm here to help, Aria. And you're the one Iris is trying to help. I'm not here to help you, Iris.

That's crazy!　I don't care about me right now!　I'm here to save Iris.

It doesn't matter. If you'd asked for help sooner, none of this would have happened. Isn't that right?

Well, that's because ...... I don't want to get Iris involved or anything .......

When Iris was threatened with death, you were willing to give up your life to save her. I'm not sure what to make of that.　I think it's not surprising that Iris would be upset about that.

”.......

Aria's expression clouded at my words.

I'm not sure what to do, but I'm going to try. I'm sure Aria knew that. It was Aria who tried to reject him.

Even more than Iris, she tried to take it all on herself.

I'm a little angry, too. Did you think I couldn't help you?

I believe you. I believe in you, and I just wanted you to protect Iris.

Oh, I see. Then I'll tell you one thing.

Ah!

I cut the chains that bind Aria with my sword, and put a coat on her with nothing on.

Then I gently put my hand on her.

I'm not the only one who can protect you. I can protect you as well--I'm capable of that. Well, I may be a knight, but I'm also your homeroom teacher now. You can rely on me for that.

”Does that mean that ...... will protect me?

It is natural for teachers to protect their students. It is natural for a teacher to protect his students, even if they are strangers. So it's up to you to decide.

I turn my attention to Iris' battle.

She was still fighting with Kufirio, but she was already wobbly.

She may not even have enough strength left to hold the sword.

And yet, Iris continues to fight. She could have asked me for help, but she didn't.