He had gotten there in time, he was ready to protect his meister, just like it had always been. Even if this one attack was more deadly than usual, he was ready to give up his life for her.

Just for her.

What he didn't expect though, was how she suddenly grabbed his shirt and shoved him out of the way, so suddenly that he can't prevent it, just a second before the attack reached him, and now, it went through her body.

He couldn't believe his eyes. All this time, he always protected her. He never let her get hurt if he could do it. He always… took the death blow.

And now, when the time when it actually really matter, why can't he take it? Why did he hove him out of the way?

His eyes was questioning her, and then, he practically could hear her answer ringing in his ears, as she mouthed it, even as blood flew out from the corner of her lips.

"This time… I protect you."