The rooftop was quiet, dusted with fresh snow that sparkled under the soft glow of nearby lanterns. Yukiriel moved through her martial forms with calm precision, each step light and measured. Below, the town prepared for winter—lanterns swayed, smoke curled from chimneys, and the faint sound of temple bells drifted through the crisp air. In a small bucket beside her, Kori splashed, its simple blue eyes following her movements.

Yukiriel paused, letting her arms fall gracefully to her sides, and smiled faintly. “Kori… careful. Don’t splash so much, or you’ll freeze yourself.”

Kori bubbled in reply, sending tiny ripples across the water.

She chuckled softly, brushing snow from her sleeves. “You really can’t help yourself tonight, can you?”

Kori twirled playfully, splashing once more. Yukiriel’s violet-blue eyes drifted over the quiet town below, warm lantern light reflecting in the snow. She exhaled gently, serene, letting the soft snowfall and Kori’s tiny splashes accompany her silent practice on the winter night.