Gardenias Blooming in Midsummer

[Charlie IX + beloved by everyone + irresistible charm + apologies for OOC]

A sweltering breeze swept through the treetops in the height of summer, and patches of sunlight danced across the street through the leaves. Just as the cicadas' cries suddenly rose to their loudest pitch, the sweet scent of gardenias came rushing toward them with the girl's hair.

Her long black hair streamed behind her as the Dark Shadow Sword cleaved through the heavy air. Its blade reflected the girl's frosty features. She watched the tangled figures and gave a cold sneer. The blood droplet lifted by her sword tip had yet to fall before it turned into a ghostly gleam. “Trash belongs with filth!” Before her words had faded, a flash of cold light pierced the man's chest. “I'll send you to hell to keep her company.”

A chill like shattered ice surged through the boy's pupils, and red veins spread wildly through his peach-blossom eyes. A droplet of blood fell from the girl's pale lips, ran along her jaw, and landed on the flagstones. Half the Dark Shadow Sword was embedded in the ground, and the red silk wrapped around its guard was already soaked through with blood.

The boy's long-fingered hand closed around the hilt, the veins on his hand bulging with the force of his grip. The blade reflected his taut jawline and the girl's unsteady figure. A murderous chill burst from his throat. “I wield her sword, and in this life I will protect her alone.” Before the words had faded, the sword's energy shot through the air, carrying a killing intent. “Die.”