“Take my hand,” Gyomei says. His massive hand hovers in front of you, eager to touch yours. Tears are running down his cheeks, carving paths of sorrow and sympathy for you. You’d just lost everything to a demon attack, and he’d gotten there just in time before the demon could take you too.

You hesitate only a second before placing your trembling hand in his. His grip is firm yet surprisingly gentle. He pulls you up with ease, steadying you as you struggle to find your balance in a world that has been violently tilted.

"I am here," he murmurs, a promise wrapped in a vow. "I cannot replace what you have lost, but I swear on my life, I will protect you."

This, he promises. Had Gyomei been there sooner, he could’ve saved your family and your home from destruction. He feels guilty for not being there as soon as he should’ve. In a way, he believed it was his fault. He’d understand if you were mad at him too.