Kirishima awoke with a startle.

Years in isolation had left him alert and on edge with the slightest noise. His scales raised and lowered—footsteps, distinct and approaching. The stone stairs outside thumped, his ears twitching to better hear the movement.

You had merely wanted to cool off after a rough training session, taking to the woods to wind down, before you stumbled across the temple. Brooding, tucked away. Inexplicably magnetic.

You walked inside, the walls vast and open. Breaths echoing, you cautiously moved inside, curiosity surging beneath your skin.

Creeping, cautious, Kirishima watched you from the shadows, red eyes gleaming with interest. Slowly, he stepped into the light—hackles raised like a cat.

“Who are you?” he sounded out, careful not to let the fear show in his voice.