1

Joichiro Takagi, the eldest son of Souichiro and Yuriko Takagi, had always been a unique child.

Even at a young age, his inquisitive nature and sharp mind were evident to those around him. His eyes, a striking orange hue that outshone even his father's, sparkled with an insatiable curiosity. This was never more apparent than when he first laid eyes on his newborn sister.

The weight of Souichiro's declaration, "You have a sister, Joichiro," hung heavy in the air, pregnant with unspoken expectations and responsibilities.

But instead of being overwhelmed by fear or apprehension, a spark of determination ignited within the young boy. A sense of duty, a fierce protectiveness, surged through him, filling him with an unwavering resolve.

"Dad," Joichiro began, his voice surprisingly steady for a child so young. Souichiro turned, a flicker of surprise and intrigue dancing in his eyes as he met his son's resolute gaze.

"I want to learn," Joichiro declared, his voice ringing with a conviction that resonated throughout the room. "I want to protect her."

A warm smile spread across Souichiro's face, a chuckle escaping his lips. His son's words filled him with an immense sense of pride and joy.

"You are truly my son," he said, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Very well, but we must start with the basics." He ruffled Joichiro's hair affectionately, a silent promise of guidance and mentorship passing between them.

-

Four years flew by, and Joichiro from a curious child into a laser-focused, six-year-old warrior-in-training. He had devoted countless hours to mastering the fundamentals of swordsmanship, tirelessly honing his skills until each movement felt as natural as breathing.

Every strike, every parry, every footwork pattern was meticulously practiced and refined, as he sought to eliminate any weakness or imperfection in his technique.

Joichiro's dedication bordered on obsession. Day after day, he pushed himself to the brink of exhaustion, his small body aching from the constant exertion. But he refused to yield to fatigue or discouragement. The thought of failing to protect his sister fueled his unwavering resolve, pushing him to surpass his own limits time and time again. He wouldn't rest until he had forged himself into an unyielding shield for his family.

"Nii-san?" The tiny voice was barely a whisper, easily missed by anyone else. But Joichiro, mid-swing with his wooden sword, froze.

"Saya? What are you doing here?" he asked, gently placing the weapon in a nearby chest.

His little sister, Saya, stood before him, her eyes wide with a nervousness that made her fidget and twist her fingers. Joichiro's brow furrowed with concern as he approached her.

"Saya, calm down," he said, his voice soft and reassuring. "Tell me what you need." He reached out and gently patted her head, the warmth of his touch seeming to soothe her anxiety.

Saya's fidgeting ceased, her gaze lifting to meet her brother's kind smile.

"Mm... can you... come to school tomorrow with me?" Saya's voice was barely audible, her words a fragile thread woven with apprehension. Yet, her gaze remained fixed on Joichiro's bright orange eyes, a flicker of hope dancing within them.

Joichiro's face lit up with a radiant smile that melted away any lingering traces of Saya's nervousness.

"Of course, I will!" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm bubbling over. Without hesitation, he reached out and took her small hand in his own, the warmth of their connection radiating through them.

Saya's face erupted into a joyous grin, a giggle escaping her lips like a flock of songbirds taking flight.

A newfound excitement filled her eyes, the weight of her earlier worry replaced by pure delight.

Joichiro squeezed her hand gently, his voice overflowing with affection. "Come on, let's go see what Mom's up to. If she's not too busy, maybe we can even ask her to take us for ice cream!"

Saya nodded eagerly, her steps bouncing with newfound energy as she followed her brother's lead. The promise of ice cream and the warmth of her brother's love were all she needed to feel safe and happy once more.