[ he turns sharply at the request, eyes wide with surprise. but it's only for a moment, and the tension falls from his shoulders as he nods. ]

With luck, that time will never come.

[ he turns to face hizamaru fully, both arms dropping to his sides. ]

But if it does... I will do everything in my power to protect you as you are now, and to destroy any demon that would use your body against your will. I will never allow your brother to see you being used like that again, even if it breaks me. You have my word.

[ and then, he bows - not too low, but enough that hizamaru will know, under no uncertain terms, that this is a promise he intends to keep. ]