My Unique Skill [Gacha] Will Save the World - Episode 19: Visiting Kyouka

Episode 19: Visiting Kyouka

“Onii-chan! You’re so slow!” 

The moment Rindou entered the hospital room, Kyouka greeted him with a playful complaint. 

“Sorry, I got caught up exploring the gate.” 

“What? You’ve already started going into the gates? Are you okay?” 

Kyouka had been cheerful just moments ago. But she suddenly looked concerned when Rindou mentioned the gate. 

“I’m fine. It was one of the beginner gates set up by the Association. So the monsters weren’t that strong.” 

“…R-Really?” 

“Yeah, really. Look, see? Your big brother’s perfectly fine!” 

Rindou flexed his arm and even did a few squats to demonstrate his health. Although he had encountered a stronger variant of a monster and it had been dangerous, he chose not to tell Kyouka. He knew it would only worry her unnecessarily. 

“…Ah, thank goodness.” 

“Were you that worried?” 

“Of course I was! I mean, I mean…” 

Kyouka trailed off. She was unable to finish her sentence. She had endured both physical and emotional trauma after being gravely injured by a monster, not to mention witnessing their parents’ deaths firsthand. Outwardly, she seemed like a normal girl. But her body and heart were still fragile. 

“…I’m sorry, Kyouka. But really, your big brother’s fine.” 

Rindou hugged his sister tightly. He was reflecting on how he had let his excitement about becoming a player distract him from being more mindful. 

“…Just promise me you won’t do anything reckless, okay?” 

“…I promise. I’ll be careful.” 

“…It’s a promise, alright?” 

“Of course.” 

Rindou held her close until he felt her calming down and sensed her easing away. He let go. 

“Hehe, thanks, Onii-chan.” 

“You okay now?” 

“Yup! I’m fine!” 

Rindou felt relieved to see Kyouka back to her usual cheerful self. But suddenly, he noticed a presence behind him and spun around. 

“…………What are you doing, Dr. Ayase?” 

“Oh, I was just admiring what a caring older brother you are!” 

“That’s obviously a lie! You were spying on us, weren’t you?” 

Kanna Ayase had come to the room for Kyouka’s check-up. She had accidentally witnessed the hug and missed her chance to enter. So she decided to observe instead. 

“No, really! I was genuinely moved. Such sibling love! I wasn’t thinking at all about how overly protective you might be, nope!” 

“You were definitely thinking that! Of course, I care about her—she’s my sister!” 

“And I care about you too, Onii-chan!” 

Kanna had meant to tease Rindou. But Kyouka’s heartfelt response made it impossible to continue poking fun. 

“Ahem… That’s right, Kyouka-san. You clearly value your brother a lot.” 

“Yep!” 

“Uh, Doctor? Are you trying to brush off the fact that you were spying on us?” 

Kanna awkwardly tried to change the subject. But Rindou squinted suspiciously, calling her out. 

“Onii-chan, don’t bully Dr. Ayase!” 

“Kyouka, seriously…?” 

Rindou couldn’t argue with Kyouka’s plea. So he gave up on confronting Kanna. 

“…….You could’ve just knocked, you know.” 

“Well, I couldn’t find the right moment. Sorry, Rindou-kun.” 

“It’s fine, I guess.” 

“Sensei, is it time for my check-up?” 

Kyouka glanced at the clock as she spoke. 

“Yes, it is. Rindou-kun, I’m sorry, but could we wrap up your visit for now?” 

“I’m sorry, Onii-chan.” 

“You don’t need to apologize. I’m looking forward to seeing you get better.” 

Rindou smiled as he patted Kyouka’s head. He reassured her when she looked sad and apologetic. 

“Alright, Dr, I’ll leave her in your care.” 

“Understood.” 

“Come see me again tomorrow, Onii-chan!” 

“Of course, I will.” 

With that, Rindou left the hospital room. 

On his way out, he stopped by the security post to pick up his Gale Sword from Ittetsu. Then, exhausted from the day, he headed straight home to rest.