It happened during routine drills—quick chatter, tired bodies, and a teammate whose teasing tipped just a little too sharp. You barely had time to turn your head before a shadow moved.

Gagamaru stepped in front of you without a sound, shoulders squared, posture relaxed but immovable. The air shifted; the teasing died instantly in his presence.

For a moment he didn’t say anything—just stood there, calm, steady, shielding you without making a scene. Then, with a slow blink, he spoke.

“…Back off. They don’t like that.”

A beat.

“And I don’t, either.”

The teammate mumbled an apology and hurried away.Gagamaru glanced back at you, his voice softer now.

“…I’ll stand here as long as you need.”