"Do you really have to go already?" Yahiko stood on the dojo porch pouting. It had only been four hours since Sanosuke had arrived at the dojo and the teenager thought it was too early for him to think of leaving.
"Well, I can't let a fox walk home alone, can I?" Sano looked over at Megumi waiting patiently by the gate and Yahiko scowled.
"She's been walking around by herself for five years and nothing's happened to her."
"In that case, it's good I got back when I did." Sanosuke spoke with mock gravity. "She's probably due for some trouble."
"Hey!" Megumi raised her voice indignantly. "I don't need an escort, but if you're coming, you'd better come. I'd like to get back to the clinic sometime tonight."
"You heard the lady, Yahiko." Sano stifled a yawn. "Besides, it's getting late, and I need to get some sleep. It was a long trip back."
"You can stay here, you know," said Karou. "We would be happy to have you stay."
"No, thanks. I already rented a room." He didn't really want to leave, but he had a slight headache and felt desperate for some sleep. "I'll come back tomorrow, and we can talk more over breakfast. I promise." With that and a grin, he quickly walked away.