Kanezaka was lively at all hours of the day and well into the night.

Once the sun had set, neon storefront signs and hanging paper lanterns took her place, illuminating the twisting alleys and cobblestone walkways in dancing hues.

Mizuki trailed behind the rest of the Yokai, following the sound of their lively chatter as they navigated the maze of alleyways that made up the downtown district. It blended with the laughter that often drifted from the stores they passed, merry patrons enjoying their evening in one another’s company.

He kept an eye out on the yawning shadows that curled around the edges of the streets, ever vigilant, while listening to the loud conversations bouncing between the others ahead of him.

Always checking for the first sign that something was amiss.

He exhaled a breath slowly, lifting his hand to adjust the kasa hat perched atop his head—a habit rather than necessity, by then.