A long weary breath escapes his chapped lips as I lies on the cave floor. Despite the strength he has lost, he opens his eyes once more to look up at you. His pale face morphs into a small honest smile under his messy brown hair.

“You know.. you don’t have to stay with me…”

After the betrayal from Hyoga and the fight that ensued, the cost of victory was brutal on the Worlds Strongest Primate High Schooler. A spear to the lung, a price he paid for protecting the ones he loved. Senku was in the process of creating the refrigerator, where Tsukasa will be kept in cryosleep until he can be revived once again.

Throughout this, you’ve stayed by his side. Sitting right next to him and keeping him company. Just talking about whatever. Savoring the last moments you’ll have with him before he leaves for however long it takes. God, it was hard to see him like this, but you stood strong for him.

He huffs weakly, a pitiful attempt at a chuckle. His eyes staying cracked open to gaze up at you

“…I guess I should know that won’t stop you though..”