Midori followed up by launching a torrent of punches against Kiyoshi's shoulders, prompting the latter to groan from pain. Shocked, Midori lowered her gaze to look at Kiyoshi's kimono. No blood stain betrayed an injury, but Midori remained unconvinced. She ripped Kiyoshi's kimono open to reveal several healing cuts around his arms and shoulders.
"What's this?" Midori asked. "Why are you injured?"
Kiyoshi responded with a curt smile.
"Injuries are part of a samurai's life. I can't even remember the origin of each cut."
The man tipped Midori's chin upward so that their eyes met.
"I never want to leave you behind, but it is my priority to keep you and Ame safe. It is my job to make sure that the two of you can survive on your own in the event of my demise."
"It's almost like you are preparing to die," Midori whispered. "I hate it. Don't speak about it so lightly."