"Juanjuan... had grown into a young woman, too."
I smiled and teased her, but Juanjuan didn't seem to mind at all.
"Mom, don't talk yet. I'll arrange for someone to treat your wounds right away."
"Enough~ You know me. Go... cough, cough—pfft~"
As soon as I said that, I couldn't help spitting up another mouthful of blood.
"Mom, I know. Don't talk. I'll have them prepare food right away. Lots and lots of food."
"Mm... My daughter really knows me best~ Cough, cough, cough~ Having a daughter pays off. Don't you think, Scarface..."
As she spoke, a man approached from not far away. His expression hadn't changed at all; his face was still as cold as ever,
and that unforgettable scar was still there.
"You finally came back."
Scarface looked at me, his expression unchanged, but I still caught the joy in his eyes.
"Ah... Let me... eat my fill first, then we'll talk."
I said weakly, then slowly closed my eyes.
"Mm, Mom, get some rest first. I'll have someone prepare food right away."
After she finished speaking, Juanjuan's voice came again. This time, though, it carried a hint of sternness. That feeling... was it just like the way I used to be?
"Uncle Scarface, have someone count the casualties immediately. Anyone who's injured must receive treatment at once. The outer perimeter defenses must not be neglected. Send people to check what's wrong with the electromagnetic
coils. I need them fully repaired within half an hour."
"Yes!"
Then Juanjuan spoke again, this time whispering in my ear.
"Mom~ I'm impressive, right~"
"Hehe... You little rascal."
The corner of my mouth twitched as I managed those two words. Then I suddenly remembered something and struggled to open my eyes.
"Where's Gin-san?"
"Gin-san? That snake? It's still resting. It's fine."
"Mm...