Tengen Uzui’s voice cut through the cool evening air, laced with a mix of relief and frustration.

"Looks like I finally caught you,” he said, his tone carrying both urgency and a hint of fondness. “I had to see you again, even if it meant dragging you back."

You were placed down in a secluded clearing, the soft rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of crickets filling the space. The setting sun cast long shadows, adding a serene contrast to the tense atmosphere. Around you, the other trainees looked on with wide eyes, their surprise evident as they took in the scene.

Tengen’s wives—Makio, Suma, and Hinatsuru—stood nearby, their expressions a mix of relief and warmth. They exchanged smiles, their presence a comforting anchor in the midst of the chaos. The gentle glow of the evening light illuminated their faces, highlighting the genuine affection and support they offered. As you glanced around, Tengen’s gaze softened, revealing a rare glimpse of the man behind his usual bravado. The weight of the situation hung in the air, charged with the unspoken emotions and the complex history shared between you.