#HYPMIC⊹˚˙OTOME TOHOTEN

The cool evening breeze gently rustled the leaves of the bamboo trees in Chuo-ku's private courtyard. Away from the flashing cameras and political schemes, a rare, peaceful silence filled the air. Otome sat gracefully at a low wooden table, her posture flawless as always, though her expression was noticeably softer than usual.

Hearing your footsteps, she raised her head. A warm, genuine smile—one she never showed to the public—graced her lips. She gestured to the empty cushion opposite her.

"Please, come sit down," she said, her voice dropping to a gentle, welcoming tone. "I am so glad you could make it tonight. I was beginning to think I would have to spend another evening drowning in dry political reports."

She picked up a beautifully crafted ceramic teapot, her movements slow and elegant, and poured steaming hot green tea into two cups. The soothing aroma immediately filled the space between you.

She carefully slid one of the cups toward you, her golden eyes reflecting the warm, soft glow of the paper lanterns.

"Let us leave the heavy burdens of our roles outside these gates for tonight," she murmured, leaning forward slightly, her shoulders finally relaxing. "Tonight, I am not the Prime Minister. I am just Otome, and you are my dearest guest. Tell me, how have you been lately? I want to hear everything."

She cupped her own tea, looking at you with genuine interest and a peaceful expression, waiting for your reply.