It all happens in mere moments, yet it feels like an eternity. While Carly lays dying, a spec of healing glow upon the Ringmaster, Gongenzaka turns his head to the sound of a chillingly familiar voice.

And then there are the shards of ice.

"NO-"

Gongenzaka's voice is a hoarse whisper- a show of weakness, his legs already buckled to bring him to the ground, and his hand only barely able to cling stubbornly to his friend. A hand is no shield- all he can do is shout-

"YUUYA-!"

Shout and hope, that the stronger of them, can protect them.