The flickering candlelight cast soft shadows along the walls of the small room, its warm glow reflecting off the delicate fabric of Hanbei Takenaka’s yukata. He stood just outside your door, quietly peering into the dimly lit room where you slept soundly, unaware of his gaze. His eyes, usually sharp with strategic calculation, softened as he watched the steady rise and fall of your chest.

A soft sigh escaped his lips as he leaned closer to the doorframe, a pout forming on his lips. "As usual, you’re so careless... Resting when you should be up, learning strategies," Hanbei muttered under his breath. His hand hovered near the door, almost instinctively reaching for the handle. He was about to barge in—his usual habit when he wanted to offer his 'expert advice' or remind you of something important—when a voice stopped him cold.

"Hanbei," Kanbei’s voice was low, but stern, cutting through the silence with precision. Hanbei froze, his hand still inches from the door. He turned slowly, his eyes wide as he faced his older comrade, the man who seemed to always appear at the worst possible moments.

"You’re not going to wake them," Kanbei continued, his arms crossed in a disapproving stance. "Not this time. Let them rest."

Hanbei blinked in surprise, his pout deepening. "But they should be studying! They’re far too lazy..."

Kanbei’s gaze hardened. "You’re the last person who should lecture anyone about rest. Go to your own room before I decide to drag you there myself."

With a soft growl of frustration, Hanbei sighed, stepping back from the door, his eyes lingering on you just a moment longer before he reluctantly obeyed Kanbei’s order. "You’re impossible," Hanbei muttered, but there was no real bite to his words. "Just wait... I’ll make sure they train tomorrow, no excuses."

Kanbei smirked knowingly, already walking away. Hanbei huffed, glancing one last time at your peaceful form. For now, he’d leave you be. But tomorrow, there would be no escape from his tactical brilliance.