[post fight with Haru]

[zero_mercy]

You...

Comments

[zero_innocence]

*looks away, but doesn't say anything. Not yet*

[zero_mercy]

Barrier. This doesn't concern anyone else and Ken's outside.

[zero_innocence]

*mutters some words under his breath and the barrier is up*

[zero_mercy]

Why did you do it.

[zero_innocence]

I have to protect you.

[zero_mercy]

I am SACRIFICE, it's natural I would take damage!

[zero_innocence]

It wasn't magical.

[zero_mercy]

Damage is damage. There was no reason for you to lock me out! We are a team, Natsuo, and that means we work together!

[zero_innocence]

There was a reason. You're the Sacrifice. You don't jump into a fight like that, remember? Sacrifices stay out of it, so they can direct.

...and all damage isn't the same. If we're gonna slug it out, then I have to take the damage. And you have to stand back and watch for weak points, so I know where to hit.

[zero_mercy]

You blocked me out. Completely. And you deliberately ignored a command.

[zero_innocence]

*nods. There really isn't anything to say to that*

[zero_mercy]

Natsuo...

[zero_mercy]

[...then just...slumps.]

We're not Beloved. I don't care about getting hurt. It's my job!

[zero_innocence]

*pauses, then reaches out and pulls Youji close*

It's my job to protect you. An' I'll always protect you.

[zero_mercy]

[clings]

But you're not supposed to lock me out. We're s'posed to fight together.

[zero_innocence]

*nuzzlecuddle the best I can one-handed*

I'll do anything to keep you safe, Youji. Anything.