[Ch.99] A Brother's Protection

***Warning: This chapter contains a brief mention of self-harm that some readers may find uncomfortable.***

Norimori had the maids bring over snacks and drinks to the Pavilion while they sat down. Ryu's eyes stuck on the plate of the food and waited impatiently for it to be brought over. Ryu didn't even bother with the chopsticks and shoved the snacks into his mouth. His eyes watered as he choked on the food and struggled to breathe.

The taste of dirt still lingered in his mouth no matter how many years had passed.

Not even his new body cured him of this curse.

Norimori panicked, "Y-You don't have to shove it into your mouth! There is more food-"

Norimori's words halted abruptly and stood up with a violent look on his face. He pulled out his sword without another word. Ryu followed his eyes and saw that Tsunemori had burst into the courtyard with a malicious look in his eyes.

Tsunemori shouted, "Give him back!"