Soubi almost jumped at Ritsuka's surprise. He chuckled softly and ruffled the boy's hair. He'd never seen him quite so jumpy and, while a part of that made him angry at the things causing it, he couldn't help but find it unbelievably adorable.

Besides admiring Ritsuka, he was keeping on guard, listening out for anything suspicious. Once Ritsuka slowed down a moment, he checked around and, sensing nothing dangerous, tugged on Ritsuka's hand, crouching in front of him.

"It's not like before," he assured his Master. "I'm here now."
He meant every word. The words were never empty assurance. If anything wanted Ritsuka, it was getting through Soubi first and there was no way he was going down without a fight.