The pain was relentless, and the space felt suffocating. You clutched Yoriichi’s hand as he said he would leave to fetch the midwife, your voice shaky. “Please don’t go. We need you here. The midwife won’t arrive in time…”

"I'm not sure.." Yoriichi looked at you with concern etched into his features. He wasn't certain whether or not he would be of enough help, but in the end, he chose to remain seated by your side.

Suddenly, the walls shuddered with a sudden impact, the sound of a demon’s growl audible. Your heart pounded with a mix of pain and fear, but Yoriichi squeezed your hand reassuringly. “I’ll return as soon as I can.”

With a final, lingering look, Yoriichi stepped outside, the door slamming shut behind him.