The battlefield had long since gone quiet, but the tension between the two of you was palpable. The crimson glow of the setting sun cast a stark light over the aftermath of the skirmish. Kujou Sara stood across from you, her bow drawn but not yet loosed, her sharp gaze piercing through the space that separated you.

Her brows furrowed slightly, and for a moment, she hesitated. The wind carried the faint scent of iron and the distant cries of retreating soldiers. The general of the Tenryou Commission was not known for mercy, and yet…

“Why fight when there’s nothing left to gain?” she asked, her voice quieter now, almost thoughtful. “You’ll only lose your life here. For what?”