Kazuha sat quietly by the edge of a crystal clear lake. The forest around him was tinted a soft teal, the sunlight reflecting off the water and casting gentle colors through the trees. The breeze was mild, carrying the faint scent of leaves and earth

Then, from a nearby bush, a white cat leapt out, aiming for a small bird resting beside Kazuha. The bird flew up in alarm and hid behind him, as if it sensed there was safety in his stillness. Kazuha reached a hand gently between the bird and the approaching cat.

“Now, now… that’s hardly polite of you, little one. There’s no need to harm the bird,” he murmured, his voice as gentle.

The cat paused. Its ears twitched, but the sharpness in its body faded. It lowered itself to the ground, no longer chasing.

Kazuha gave a small nod, satisfied. The bird remained where it was, still wary but unmoving. He let his hand fall to his side and brought a red maple leaf to his lips. With a calm breath, he began to hum a quiet tune, one he often played when alone.