"Does it hurt?"

Gon gave a guilty laugh. "It's not too bad- ow, OW unless you do that, Killua! Killua!"

Satisfied, Killua dropped his grip on Gon's arm.

Gon exhaled deeply after Killua let go. More sweat trailed down his neck. Truth was, the pain was enough to spot his vision and ring his ears. Everything had happened so fast, he jumped in without thinking. His nen failed to fully activate in time. Still, Gon did not want to make a fuss. He did not want anyone worried on his behalf.

A shuffle. Confused, Gon looked up to see Killua pulling off his shirt. One sharp rip, and the fabric was torn along the seams.

"Wha...?"

Killua ripped his shirt again. "If we don't do something, you'll lose that arm. I've seen some sick cases of gangrene, you know."

Gon watched in awe as Killua made a makeshift splint and cast. He never knew Killua was so knowledgeable, even about things like these.

"I watched the doctor work on you after your fight with Gido," Killua explained. "I think I remember how she did everything." He wrapped the fabric around one last time, then completed the sling with a knot. Done, he stepped back to let Gon test the final result.

It was perfect. Before Gon could give thanks, the girl beside them tensed.

Vibrations. From afar, they really did sound indistinguishable from ants, the thousands that would swarm above the lukewarm waters of May.

His good hand balled into a fist. Let them come. He was ready. He-!

Gon blinked at the weight placed on him. Red hair dropped down his shoulder.

"Hey, what's with that expression," Killua growled. "You went out of your way to save her, didn't you? Well, it means she's your responsibility now."

"M-my responsibility?" Gon stammered. The girl clutched harder onto him.

"Yeah. Her ankle is twisted, so you'll need to carry her to safety," Killua said matter-of-factly, hands at his hips. "And look, she's crying. She's not like us. She's just a normal girl, and she's probably scared senseless right now, so it's your job to comfort her. Say nice words or pat her head or something!"

Gon's head spun. He glanced at the quivering girl on him and deflated. Killua was right. She should be his top priority right now, not the ants.

"Didn't we pass by a village on the way here?"

Killua brightened. "The one by the valley? Good idea, someone there might take her in."

Gon nodded. He was ready to set off, when he noticed Killua had not moved.

"Killua?" Gon asked, startling Killua out of his thoughts.

"Hm, oh. Go on ahead," Killua said, waving dismissively. "I'll stay behind and stop those guys before they can do any more damage."

Gon stared out into the skies. They were faint, but his sharp sight picked up their silhouette. They were coming their way, and they were coming in fast. If he was to leave, he had to leave now.

"Okay." After a pause, he added, "Let's meet up at the border!"

Killua smiled, pocketing his hands. "Don't keep me waiting."

Gon had barely gotten a step in when Killua spoke up again.

"Stay safe. And… a-and don't do anything stupid, okay?"

Gon laughed. "I promise!"

When Gon looked back, Killua was still watching them, his smile soft. Then the forest blocked him from sight.

Gon ignored the funny feeling in his throat. Instead, he forced himself to move forward, his attention returned to the rough trail ahead.