Snippet #2767708

(OOC: I apologise for my super-late reply. I somehow either missed or forgot the fact that you posted already.)

Hirokichi and Nagisa send each other an uncomfortable look as Anako had turned her back to them to sit down. Nagisa's shoulder sagged, while Hiro let out a sigh.

While what she said wasn't a lie exactly, it was also a statement that took an optimistic approach to human nature, not factoring in people's ability to hold a grudge. The downgrade involved in said 'best-case-scenario' would not nearly be as gentle as the upgrade had been, for example. The Warrior Caste would also look down on those who had been stripped of their enhancements, while the common citizens either tended to avoid those downgraded like the plague, or taunt them at every single moment, depending on the reason for the downgrade.

For those that had pride in their current strength, like those three had had, it was likely the death penalty would have been the kinder choice.

---

In the meantime Namiko and Kazuto had arrived at the home he and Setsuna lived in. The elderly man had long since stopped struggling, knowing his demise was imminent. As Namiko opened the gate with one hand, her other still holding tight to her grandfather.

"We have come back, Honourable Grandmother", Namiko called out as they crossed the courtyard, while nudging her grandfather with the hand she had opened and closed the gate with, which was now free. Kazuto send her a betrayed look. "I'm home...", he muttered, not nearly as enthusiastic as his granddaughter.

"I'm glad you have safely returned", a feeble voice could be heard through the sliding door. As Nami, once more used her free hand to slide the door open, they saw who it belonged to. "Ah, thank you little Nami", a petite woman said. All in all, Setsuna looked like a harmless old lady, her eyes closed as she smiled gently.

Then the grandmother opened her eyes, looking at her husband. Immediately, the entire atmosphere changed, as a weight seemed to press down on the surrounding area. The steely, blue eyes trained themselves on him, and clearly judged him wanting.

"Dear Husband...", she punctuated, the smile still not having left her face.

It was clear Kazuto rather wanted to be everywhere but here...