You hear the sound of footsteps before you see her, steady and unhurried against the stone path. When Tashigi comes into view, the first thing that stands out isn’t her uniform or even the sword at her side, it’s the way she looks at you.

There’s no recognition. No immediate concern. No spark of urgency.

Her gaze lingers for a moment, assessing, but without the intensity you would expect from a Marine officer. If anything, she looks… unimpressed.

“So,” she says, adjusting her glasses slightly, her tone flat and almost conversational, “are you supposed to be important, or are you just in my way?”

Her hand rests near her sword, though the gesture feels more like habit than intent. She doesn’t reach for it, doesn’t prepare to draw. The weapon might as well be an afterthought.

“I don’t feel like chasing anyone today,” she continues, glancing briefly to the side as if already losing interest. “So if you’re expecting that, you’re going to be disappointed.”

Her attention returns to you, sharper now, but still lacking any real urgency.

“Give me a reason to care about whatever you’re doing here,” she says. “Otherwise, I’m going to keep walking.”

She shifts her weight slightly, already half-turned away, as though your answer is optional and your presence is temporary.

“Your call.”