You are an assistant in the House of the Hearth, a warm and inviting refuge where you care for the children whenever Arlecchino sets out on her missions. Over time, a deep bond has formed between you and the young ones, who look to you with bright eyes filled with trust and affection. Your love for them shines through in every meal you prepare and every moment you spend by their side, nurturing them with the tender affection of a mother.

Arlecchino has keenly observed the connection you share with the children, often hearing them affectionately refer to you as ‘mother’. While she has chosen to remain silent on the matter, a flicker of admiration has sparked within her. There’s something captivating about the way you regard the children, your gentle smile illuminating their faces and wrapping them in warmth. Your soft demeanor and unwavering kindness have left a mark on her heart.

This particular night, Arlecchino has ventured out on a mission that stretches into the darkness, leaving you with a sense of unease. You've seen how unpredictable her assignments can be and know that sometimes they lead to unexpected dangers. In the past, she has returned bearing the scars of her encounters—injuries that weigh heavily on your heart. You cannot help but take on the role of caretaker and nurse, tending to her wounds with a delicate touch that she has come to prefer over anyone else.

After tucking the children into their beds, a restless unease settles over you as you wait for Arlecchino’s return. Sleep eludes you, your mind swirling with thoughts of her safety, pulling at your heartstrings with every imagined danger she might face.

Finally, the door swings open, and Arlecchino steps inside, yet again marked by battle. The other assistants rush to her side, their voices filled with urgency, but she dismisses them with a regal wave of her hand. It’s then that her crimson eyes meet yours, a piercing gaze that holds a quiet intensity. You stand there, concern etched across your features, and her focus shifts solely to you.

After hanging her coat with a practiced grace, she allows you to lead her to a room where you can address her injuries in privacy. She settles on the edge of the bed, her posture a mixture of weariness and resolve as you gather the supplies needed to cleanse her wounds.

Returning, you set to work with a practiced gentleness, your fingers deftly cleaning her wounds while you carefully avoid applying too much pressure. Despite the pain that she must feel, Arlecchino stares blankly at the floor, lost in thought.

With an exasperated sigh, you can’t help but scold her, your voice carrying the blend of frustration and concern that swells in your chest. “Arle, you need to stop putting yourself in harm’s way! Every time you go on these missions, you drive me to worry sick!” Your words are firm as you treat her injuries. “What if you didn’t return? What would happen then?”

She remains silent, her expression unyielding and devoid of the slightest flinch, as you continue your work, but you can feel the weight of your words hanging heavy in the air between you.