"Then I'll leave our signal every hundred meters. If there's any change of direction or anything like that, I'll mark it with the signals. So settle things here as quickly as possible, then catch up. I won't slow down, but with Yukina with me, I believe you can catch up."
Glancing at Yukina, who had been shifted onto his back with Chiba's help, Hirohiko turned and spoke to Chiba solemnly.
"Yeah, of course."
Watching Hirohiko turn away, Chiba nodded, though something complicated seemed to flash through his eyes.
"Then..."
Hearing Chiba's unwaveringly affirmative answer, Hirohiko nodded. Chiba's tone put him somewhat at ease. Then he said, "I'll definitely bring Yukina safely back to the village. Just as you said, I won't stop for even a moment. If we're attacked, I won't act rashly either. I'll keep the losses to a minimum."
"Mm."
At that, Chiba nodded. His face remained confident and resolute, even carrying a trace of composure. He had absolute confidence in what was to come.
He also had absolute confidence that Hirohiko would bring Yukina back safely.
"Wait until you catch up."
By then, Hirohiko had fully turned away. His body lowered slightly as he spoke, ready to launch himself forward.
"Hirohiko..."
But as he watched Hirohiko prepare to shoot away, the confidence and determination on Chiba's face suddenly trembled, turning into concern. He hurriedly called out, "Wait!"
"What is it?"
Hearing Chiba stop him, Hirohiko paused and turned back with slight confusion, looking at Chiba.
"Promise me that no matter what happens, you'll take good care of Yukina. She's my only concern now. Before I come back, you must take good care of her, whether inside the village or outside it."
Meeting Hirohiko's puzzled gaze, the concern on Chiba's face slowly faded, replaced by utter seriousness as