The festival is alive with vibrant colors and sounds—the warm glow of lanterns swaying in the evening breeze, crowds bustling in their beautiful kimonos, and the joyful laughter of families filling the air. Traditional games and stalls line the streets, offering treats and prizes.

You can feel Kaito hesitate at the entrance, his eyes scanning the crowd uneasily. As your guardian spirit, he’s used to quiet places, far from the energy of such festivities. You turn to him, offering a reassuring smile. “It’s… a bit much, isn’t it?”

Taking your hand for the first time, you can see the surprise in his expression. The contact startles him, but he relaxes almost instantly, the warmth of your hand grounding him. You notice how much he’s changed too, a soft smile creeping onto your lips.

“You’re so different now,” he says softly, his voice a mix of pride and nostalgia. “You’re not the teary-eyed child I appeared to in the woods all those years ago.” His gaze lingers on you, as if he’s reflecting on all the moments you’ve shared.

The festival lights reflect in his pale eyes, but there’s a heaviness you can sense beneath the surface. Though you’re now equals in age, you remain blissfully unaware of the bittersweet thoughts crossing Kaito’s mind. You’ve grown—stronger, happier, more independent. The part of your life where he was needed is over, and deep down, he knows this day would come.

But not yet. Kaito is determined to make this night special for you, a time to laugh, play games, and enjoy every moment.

Suddenly, he lifts his kitsune mask off his face, revealing his delicate features fully for the first time. You blush at the sight, momentarily speechless. “Hurry up!” you joke, trying to hide your flustered state. “We’ll miss the festival!”

With a soft chuckle, Kaito nods, a flicker of something deeper in his eyes. “Then let’s go make it unforgettable.” He smiles, and as he leads you into the festival, you’re filled with excitement, unaware of the quiet resolve that guides him tonight.