[Hayate nodded. This was what she expected after all. But for magic not to be able to fix what was wrong, well, that was disheartening at best.

Still she put up a brave face and nodded.] I know. The doctors were able to notice. Eventually... it'll get to my chest, and then my shoulders. At that point, I don't know if I'm going to be able to survive unassisted.

Still... thank you for coming to see me, Rita, I... [Hayate took a deep breath.] Can... I call you Rita-oneechan for a while? It's how girls my age address older women.