Aschenfall Infirmary
Valeria had insisted on walking on her own from the gates.
Upright posture. Measured steps. No complaint.
But Kaito had noticed how her hand subtly pressed against her side. How her breathing was shallower than normal. The bloodstain slowly spreading on her clothes.
"Valeria. To the infirmary. Now."
"Damage is minor. Function at seventy percent remains acceptable."
"This isn't a request. It's an order."
Valeria processed that.
"...Accepting order. Proceeding to infirmary."
Aria was already there, preparing medical supplies with efficiency born of experience.
"On the table. Take off your armor."
Valeria obeyed mechanically.
When she removed her armor and underclothes, the extent of the damage became visible.
A deep gash on her side—ten centimeters long, actively bleeding.
Multiple blows causing bruises that were already turning dark purple.
A cut on her arm that she had completely ignored.
Aria whistled through her teeth.
