Kira PoV
I shivered, just recalling the coldness behind Setsugen's sing-song voice as he told us to return. After he had discovered us, the training got harsher and we weren't allowed to interact as much with one another. The isolation was harsh on me, even though I should've been used to it by that point, given my lonely childhood. Maybe it was due to having something akin to siblings, only to have them snatched from me.
Eizan glanced at me. "Don't listen to her. You didn't abandon anyone!"
I shook my head. "No, I... I did. I escape on my own, abandoning my friends. I thought of going back, but never had the courage to do so."
Hyona scoffed. "Still a coward. That's why you failed at being the perfect sword and shield for Sir Setsugen. If not for that fear of yours, you might've been by his side like Lady Yukihina is."
Yukihina... she was amongst the oldest of us orphans. She was quiet, but had a beautiful singing voice.
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[Years ago]
