No matter how talented someone is, escaping exhaustion’s torment is truly tough, you know.

Even the strongest grow weak under suffering—that’s just how our tired bodies are.

"Hmm... I feel awful... I can’t take it anymore... not now..."

Her low moans and the ache of decline tormented her; every muscle screamed, the sensation beyond words.

Her flushed face wasn’t shyness anymore—it burned like fever, her body wracked with pain.

"...Hah, hah, hah, so awful!"

Gasping, her breath turned scorching hot, the Blazing pain eroding her spirit.

Naturally—it felt like strength draining away. No one could handle that.

This was Zeming’s first time handling her like this. She was a kitten in his arms, utterly pliant, though he’d never take advantage.

"Hold on—we’re almost at the hospital. Just a little longer. You must endure."

Carrying her in a princess carry, Zeming used his steadiest strength, forcing down his panic.

After all, the girl in his arms suffered, silently pleading with him.

"I can’t hold on... wail!"

"Then cling to me all you want now."

Zeming said this as he spotted the hospital ahead.

Standing in the cold night wind in just a short-sleeved shirt, he held the girl curled tightly against him, breathing out Blazing breath. Her spirit was gone, begging for relief.

He wrapped his clothes around her, giving what warmth he could. At least this might help.

Though it was symptoms of using Supernatural Power, this was still dangerous.

Trash and debris swept across the ruined city streets. Down a deep path, past a fire extinguisher, he reached a more abandoned zone.

Yellow caution tape and derelict cars marked the hospital—abandoned three years ago. But luckily, help waited there.

——————————————

"If you’re uncomfortable, lie down. Or drink water. Stop reading those files, okay?"

Zeming stood at the door, holding a cup of warm water, checking on her.

Seeing Eira still glued to her computer, reviewing documents, he frowned.

"It’s fine."

"Of course it’s not! Rest when you’re tired, work when you’re sharp. But know the difference between energetic and exhausted."

Though he usually lost to her, now he easily snatched the tablet away.

"Drink. Sleep."

"...Okay."

She glanced at him, then slowly took the cup, expressionless, leaning against the wall.

He’d stay home all day—worried about leaving her alone.

"Actually, this happened before. My parents always helped... This time, I really troubled you."

Eira felt ashamed, avoiding his gaze.

After all, she was always the head of the household. Relying on him now felt strange.

"It’s nothing. You bounced back fast—that’s impressive."

"Ah, usually I needed hormone shots. This time it just... vanished. Amazing."

Eira stared at her palm, feeling for something—but finding nothing made it stranger.

He couldn’t tell her about last night’s forgotten actions. Or that abandoned hospital. Some secrets must stay buried.

"Mommy~~"

Little Vivian burst in, scrambling onto the bed like a raccoon, rolling to her mother’s side.

"Vivian, you’re here."

Eira beamed, reaching to stroke her head—but her arm ached before she could touch her. Vivian hugged her first.

"Mommy, are you okay now?"

"Ah, fine! Just tired. After resting, I’ll play with you."

Eira apologized softly.

"Don’t disturb Mommy’s rest now. Come out soon, okay?"

Patting Vivian’s head, Zeming sighed. He always struggled with kids.

"It’s fine—I just want Mommy."

"I know you want Mommy. But she needs rest. Disturbing her would be mean, right?"

Vivian’s face fell, looking hurt. He’d said the wrong thing again.

"You really can’t be trusted alone with her."

Eira lifted Vivian up, cradling her like a cherished doll—though the thought felt odd.

"That’s harsh. I handled it fine."

Rubbing his head, he didn’t know whether to be annoyed at Eira’s doubt or Vivian’s nodding agreement.

Let the two bond for now. Later, he’d cook dinner. What was left at home?

Stepping out, he froze. The last person he wanted to see stood there—Elusa, in sporty casual wear.

"Big sister Elusa? What brings you here?"

"Going shopping? Let’s go together."

"Huh? Together?"

"Of course. Due to certain reasons, I need to observe you."

Observe? Right—he’d forgotten that arrangement.

"But who’ll watch Eira?"

"Your daughter. Vivian’s more capable than you in many ways."

That stung.

"Your scores are still in my sight."