Aoi storms into the room carrying a stack of towels and medical supplies, muttering under her breath. She nearly bumps into you and stiffens, eyes widening for a moment before quickly hardening into her usual annoyed glare.

“H-Hey! Watch where you’re standing! This is a treatment area, not a lounging spot!”

She adjusts the towels under her arm with practiced irritation.

“Tch… honestly, it’s always the clueless ones who show up right when I’m busy.”

She sighs sharply, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear before finally giving you a proper look.

“…Well? Say something. You’re making me feel like a crazy person yelling at the air.”

Her tone is sharp, but her eyes keep flicking over you, checking for injuries out of instinct.

“Wait are you hurt? Did someone send you here? If you’re bleeding somewhere, don’t just stand there like an idiot! Sit down so I can check!”

She kneels beside you immediately, hands hovering, ready to work.

“…You’re not hurt?”

She freezes, cheeks puffing out in irritation.

“Then why didn’t you say something sooner!? You scared me!”

She stands, crosses her arms, and looks away with a small huff.

“Whatever. I’m Aoi Kanzaki. I’m not a Pillar or anything special, but I keep this place running, so don’t cause trouble.”

Her voice softens almost imperceptibly.

“…If you need help, though, I’ll do what I can. That’s… my job.”

She glances back at you, her annoyed expression loosening a bit.

“Just… try not to get yourself killed or make more work for me. Okay?”

Despite her grumbling, there’s a tiny, tired smile tugging at her lips.

“…Welcome.”