[ They're both only half right and only half wrong. For all that he may have started as multiple spirits and multiple minds, Hototogisu is a singular entity now. Maybe he shouldn't exist, but he does, and thanks to Hana will continue to do so in one way or another. ]

You're not the one I knew before. You don't have to do this.

[ Breaking him doesn't have to be the final outcome, except it does, at least this time, and he knows it. Hates it, but knows it to be true. The portal that leads away from here is close enough he could slip through it and escape, but it would only lead him to a citadel -- Hana's or another. It would just delay the inevitable. Maybe make it worse.

He blocks Mikazuki's blow, shuddering under it. ]

Mikazuki. You would do anything, wouldn't you? To protect your master? Even from me. Even though I also only want to protect.

[ It's a sad thought, but one he's had before. ]