At the very least, it's over fast.

A handful of low-level fiend-types (more than likely just scouts as opposed to a proper raiding party) and together Ryo and Edo make short work of them. Even alone either of them would have had very little trouble, and yet when the dust settles and the village gates swing open they are immediately surrounded by a mass of people tripping over one another to thank them.

Ryo immediately shuffles to the side, frowning a little but still giving little nods of acknowledgement and letting Edo handle most of it. The younger man all demure smiles and, "Oh no, it was nothing more than our duty to protect those weaker than us," (even after you blame us for leading a raiding party to you, turn on us, and throw us to the wolves Ryo mentally adds cynically). Carefully negotiating for supplies and a place to spend the night.

Ryo wonders if they even realize that they're being hustled. Not that Edo would ever consider it hustling either. He fancies himself a hero, he just happens to be capable of being entirely mercenary about it when the situation warrants. And yet, even in that Edo is simply thinking of their mutual survival and the simple fact that they need to stay alive to find Judai and the others. Not himself. Never just himself.

Which is why Ryo asks the nearest villager if they have a doctor or a healer of some sort here, soon enough directed to see the Witch, and she's much younger and prettier than the name implies. Her eyes clear and sharp and far too knowing when she asks, "What is it you need?"

"My--" Ryo hesitates for a moment, wondering exactly what to describe Edo as. Bitter rival? Grudging traveling companion? Partner? Friend? "Edo," he finally mutters, jerking his head slightly in Edo's general direction (who is currently entertaining a group of children and looking far more at ease than Ryo has seen him… ever.) "He has problems sleeping. Violent nightmares I think…."

"A troubled past and an uncertain future," she murmurs softly in agreement and Ryo frowns at the interruption.

"Is there anything you can give him? To help him sleep through the night, or longer than an hour or so at a time at least."

"I can. And what of you?"

"What?"

"I can give you something to ease the pain. Perhaps give you a little more time. Fool your body into thinking that your heart is not as damaged as it is…."

"No." He stares at her, expecting a protest, even as he wonders how she knew, if he is physically starting to look as ill as he feels some days. Suddenly feeling the need to explain when she doesn't say a word. "What time I have left is all I deserve. No more."

"As you wish."