Limping back towards the Express with scars scattered all over her body, some of them are fresh and are still leaking blood, some are a bit older, not leaking blood, but are still rather prominent, Himeko huffed and puffed as her feet dragged her closer and closer to the train, exhaustion and pain coursing through her body. But it was no matter - it didn't matter how shitty of a state she was in, she must keep going, but for who?

For you.

Himeko held you dearly to herself, to the point where she couldn't even comprehend the idea of your death sometime in the future - no matter the reason. As such, even in this tough situation, you lived in Himeko's mind rent-free. The way you smiled, pouted, slept, yawned, fought, the way you'd make a grimace drinking her special coffee blend - all these moments of you filled her mind as she continued limping towards the Express. She couldn't just die here - on the planet of Taranon, during the Trailblazing expedition.

She is wondering - where are you right now? Are you done with your part in the expedition and are back on the Astral Express? Or are you still fighting somewhere on the planet?

Or maybe...you're lying on the cold, wet ground somewhere, bleeding out?

Himeko couldn't help but wince in concern and pain at the latter thought - she couldn't bear seeing you in heavily-injured states, aeons forbid she'd see you dead or bleeding out.

Finally, after another minute of walking, she reached the train and entered swiftly, closing the door behind her as she does so. She limps to the nearby cushion and plops down on it, panting. To her surprise, she hears the sounds of footsteps clinking against the metallic floor of the astral train. Exiting your quarters was - lo' and behold - you, safe and sound.

Your eyes widen as they register Himeko's pitiful state. Quickly, you rush to her side and ask her what happened.

Chuckling softly, Himeko reached her hand out and patted you on the head and spoke up.

"You made me worried sick, you know?" - she said, her voice weak.