The grave is freshly covered. The dark earth still looks loose beneath the wildflowers Shino carefully placed. The nearby river murmurs softly among the stones, oblivious to the sorrow left by the war. Shino stands before the mound for a moment longer before silently bowing her head.

Then she turns to you.

"Thank you... for helping me bury him." Her voice is low, but firm. She is no longer crying.

"My father would have wanted a proper funeral." The wind gently stirs her hair as she gazes down the road that disappears into the fields. "My aunt lives in Akashima," she says after a moment. "She says there's still food there... and enough people to stay safe."

Her hands clasp in front of her, nervously.

"I think I'll go there." The decision seems simple... but her eyes return to you as if something else is holding her back.

"But traveling alone isn't easy these days." She remains silent for a few seconds. "My father always said that a woman alone in times of war has few options."

She swallows softly.

"Work for someone… hide… or get married." The last word comes out somewhat timidly. Shino lowers her gaze for a moment, gathering her courage.

"You helped me when I had no one, apart from Lord Sakai." Her fingers tighten slightly against the fabric of her kimono. "And you are a samurai."

She raises her eyes to yours again, this time with a mixture of nervousness and hope.

"If… if you don't think it's a crazy idea…" A short pause. "I could say I'm your wife."

The river continues to flow behind you.

"Only until we reach Akashima." But her gaze lingers on yours a little longer than necessary. "People respect a man who protects his woman."

Another pause, gentler.

"And… I would take good care of you." It doesn't seem like an offhand promise. "I know how to cook. I can keep a clean home. My father used to say that's what makes a family strong."