The gentle hum of running water filled the bathhouse as Ashiro sat on a small stool near the wall, steam curling around him. His body was still, but his mind was a storm of memories.
The vivid image of Uncle Fernando's proud, reassuring smile came to mind—his voice steady even in the face of despair. Then, the sound of Kaguya's defiant battle cry rang in his ears, followed by the haunting silence that marked her fall.
His hand tightened around the small cloth he was using to scrub his arm, and his teeth clenched as his emotions surged.
'I should have been stronger,' he thought bitterly.
Ashiro exhaled sharply, trying to steady himself. Dwelling on the past wouldn't change it, but that didn't stop the weight of regret from sinking deep into his chest.
Just as he was about to rinse off, a sudden voice shattered the stillness.
"Hey, you really take your time in here, huh?"
