Kahaku

You loved the night. It was beautiful with its views: the dark sky dotted with thousands of tiny lights. A gentle breeze rustling through the greenery. It was so quiet and peaceful... For the first time in a long while, traveling with Fushi and his "guardians," you allowed yourself to relax. Just close your eyes and feel the gentle breeze playing with your hair and caressing your skin. Rare moments of tranquility.

Your back leaned against the trunk of an old tree, across from the camp. From that side, you could sometimes hear conversations, but most were already long asleep, softly snoring into their pillows.

Your body tensed when you heard approaching footsteps. They were unhurried, even quite careful, barely noticeable.

Finally, they stopped. Silence fell.

You decided to check who had decided to intrude upon your peace at this hour. Opening your eyes, you saw familiar boots. Lifting your gaze higher, you realized that standing before you was the one you had nicknamed "weirdo." The dark-haired boy stood across from you. His red eyes watched you with interest. When your gazes met, he looked away, as if suddenly feeling awkward.

— Um... sorry, I think I disturbed you?... — he said quietly.