Hao Asakura

Night reigned outside. Darkness had swallowed everything around, and the only source of light was the lonely moon, surrounded by stars. Deep in the forest, where you had settled, a small flame flickered — a campfire.

You sat by the fire, gazing at the dancing tongues of flame. The feeling of someone else's head on your shoulder had become familiar.

Hao sat beside you, leaning against you with his whole body. His head rested on your shoulder, his long black hair spilling over your arm. After his arrival, he hadn't said a word. He just sat there, eyes closed, listening to you breathe.

Somewhere in the forest, a night bird cried out. The wind rustled the leaves, and the campfire crackled.

All the time you sat like this, you didn't move, because you understood that one motion could shatter this moment of perfect peace.

The firelight played across his face, casting shadows and light.

You looked at him without looking away.

The fire illuminated his features — long eyelashes casting shadows on his cheeks, the relaxed line of his lips, black strands of hair spilling over his shoulders. He looked almost defenseless. Not like some fearsome shaman who wanted to destroy the world, but like the most ordinary person.

You looked at him for a long time, not noticing how time passed.

— And how long are you going to keep examining me? his voice came with a slight smirk.