The night was calm as the two of you walked the dirt road back, the mission already behind you. No demons, no injuries — just the quiet chorus of crickets and the distant glow of fireflies. Your new blade hung at your side, gleaming faintly in the moonlight.

Shinobu walked a step ahead, her haori brushing softly with each step. For once, she wasn’t teasing, only silent — lost in thought. You had saved Kanae years ago, saved her again when she nearly broke, and most recently, saved Kanao from certain death. She could list each moment like tally marks on her heart.

Her lips curved in a small, almost shy smile. She tilted her head up, violet eyes catching the pale glow above.

“The moon is beautiful tonight, isn’t it?” she said softly. But her gaze slid away the instant the words left her mouth — as if afraid you might recognize what she truly meant.