The night was quiet as Kazuichi slipped through the narrow streets of the stronghold, his boots making soft crunching sounds against the gravel path. Himeno had already veered off, disappearing into the shadows like she always did before they reached the stronghold. Despite their growing camaraderie, she wasn't quite ready to reveal herself to his party.
Kazuichi couldn't blame her. Trust was hard to come by in these times, and Himeno's reasons for staying hidden were her own. Still, as he neared the lodge, he couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to introduce her to the others.
Maybe one day, he thought, pushing open the wooden door to their lodge.
The moment he stepped inside, the warm light of the hearth bathed his face, and familiar voices filled the air. Seated around a low table, Arisu, Ayaka, Lea, and Jurou were deep in discussion. They looked up as Kazuichi entered, their expressions shifting from concentration to relief.
