Chrno could feel his throat tighten as Rosette struggled to speak. For a moment, the stress was too great, and Chrno felt like he was going to pass out. "The seal.." He repeated, almost dumbly.

He was going to have to pull the seal. Was that what Rosette was implying? The one thing he dreaded, despite having given it to her in the first place. His hand that hovered over her trembled. He didn't want to remove more of her life to save her... but he could not leave her like this.

A promise was made.. He would not let another die because of him. There was no way he could watch someone's life, especially someone he cared so much for, just die before his eyes.

"The... the seal. It.. it is what makes her my contractor." It was a strain to talk, his voice was suppressing so much, and he felt so much pressure. His eyes shimmered as they watched her, watched her with fear, trying to make sense of who could have done this to her..

"Rosette..." He whispered, pulling her close once more so he was hugging her to his chest. A gentle kiss was placed on her forehead before he rested his cheek against the top of her head, eyes clenching shut tightly.

"...I'm sorry."

The trembling hand reached down, gently unlocking the front of the pocketwatch.