Rin didn't even think twice.
The moment he saw her face, the tears at the corner of her eyes, he rushed forward. His arms wrapped around her tightly... so tight she gasped.
He didn't know why he did it. She wasn't his mother. She wasn't family. But after hearing about the sudden attack at the academy, after fearing she might have been among the dead, Rin couldn't stop himself.
"You're alive," he whispered into her shoulder, his voice shaking a little.
The woman let out a weak laugh, though her hands trembled when she patted his back.
"Of course, I am, child. Don't cry. I'm here and alive."
Only when Rin pulled back did he notice the walking stick in her hand. She shifted her weight onto it, wincing. Rin's chest tightened.
"You're hurt?" he asked quickly, eyes scanning her. "What happened? How did you get hurt?"
"It's not hurting anymore," She shook her head gently. "Sit, Rin. Calm yourself first. I'll explain."
