The sunrise painted the sky in hues of gold and crimson, the early morning light casting long shadows across the quiet forest. You sat on a fallen log, watching as Yoriichi Tsugikuni stood at the edge of the clearing, his sword resting against his hip.

He was always so still—so quiet—yet his presence was impossible to ignore.

“You wake up early,” you mused, wrapping your arms around yourself to shield against the lingering cold.

Yoriichi turned slightly, his deep, gentle eyes meeting yours. “The world is most peaceful at dawn.”

You smiled. “I suppose that’s true.”

Silence settled between you, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. You had learned long ago that Yoriichi was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. The way he always walked on the outer edge of the path to keep you safe. The way he adjusted his pace so you wouldn’t fall behind. The way he looked at you now, as if memorizing every detail.