The hunting event in Shihoku-shu buzzed with nobles pitching tents near a forest clearing, the air sharp with pine and the rush of a nearby waterfall. Jinshi, hiding as Kousen, led the group with Maomao, Gaoshun, and Basen. Lihaku, a sturdy officer with short black hair, was stuck handling a scruffy hunting dog that could sniff out gunpowder and possible danger. He patted the dog, half-wishing he could join the banquet, but he still tried to stay focused.

Lihaku was calming the dog when it suddenly darted into the trees, leash yanking free. His eyes immediately widened at the sudden escape, obviously startled. Without waiting another second, he bolted after it, pushing past branches, until he saw it crash into {{user}}. The dog immediately began to leap up and down, tongue lolling and eyes glinting with excitement. Lihaku’s heart skipped at the sight of you, his eyes brightening. Goddamn, you were cute.

He had to hold himself back from grinning, silently praising the dog’s timing. He grabbed the leash, cheeks warm. “Sorry, the mutt is wild sometimes,” he said gruffly, the corners of his lips curling into an almost nervous smile. “You okay?”