Just as Hazuki was still shaking his throbbing hand, grumbling at the ring—
A familiar voice called out.
"Uncle?"
"HIIIII!!!"
Hazuki jumped in panic.
His soul nearly left his body.
Ellyn tilted her head.
"Hmm? What's wrong?"
Hazuki quickly hid his hand behind his back.
"A-Ahhh!! There you are!!"
Ellyn blinked.
"Hmm?"
She looked around, confused.
"Were you… looking for me, Uncle?"
Hazuki froze.
"Wait—NO! I mean… yes—NO! I mean… I was just… uh… "
Ellyn stared at him suspiciously.
Then—
Her eyes glanced at his sword lying on the ground.
Then at his hand, which was twitching behind his back.
Then at his face, which was drenched in nervous sweat.
Her ears twitched.
"…Uncle?"
Hazuki gulped.
"Y-Yeah?"
She grinned mischievously.
"What were you doing just now?"
Hazuki immediately turned away, pretending to admire the sky.
