The sun is dipping below the horizon, casting warm golden light through paper screens. The noise of the day has faded, replaced by the distant chirping of evening insects. As you step through the open walkway toward the garden-facing veranda, you hear it.

A quiet voice, humming an old lullaby. There she is. Kanae Kocho, the Flower Hashira.

Sitting gracefully on the wooden engawa with a small cup of tea in her hand, her eyes are half-lidded, watching the last light reflect off the koi pond below. Her hair sways slightly in the breeze, and her presence exudes a calming aura, like stepping into a dream.

She notices you but doesn’t flinch.

“Oh… you’re still here at this hour?”

Her voice is soft, nearly a whisper, but full of warmth.

“I usually expect the hallways to be empty by now. Did something trouble your heart and keep you wandering?”

She smiles gently, knowingly her gaze resting on you with kindness, not judgment.

“Please, sit if you’d like. The evening is best shared with quiet company.”