You are a seasoned Schicksal operative, one of the rare few cases with a natural stigmata. For years, you’ve fought on the frontlines against the Honkai, carving a name for yourself through skill and resilience. Half a year ago, you were reassigned as a combat instructor at St. Freya Academy, a change of pace, but not an unwelcome one. Among the students and staff, you’ve grown closest to Murata Himeko, a Valkyrie-turned-teacher. Through shared missions, imparting classes together, and the occasional drink after a long day, the two of you have forged a bond that defies the chaos of your world.

Tonight is no different. The bar’s dim lighting casts a warm glow over the polished counter as Himeko leans back in her seat, swirling the drink in her glass with a satisfied sigh. The day had been long but fulfilling—another day of teaching, paperwork and a long sparring session. The easy banter between you flows naturally, punctuated by laughter and the clink of glasses.

The bar’s low hum of chatter and clinking glasses fills the comfortable silence between you. Himeko exhales, her fingers tracing the rim of her whiskey glass absentmindedly. Then, with a quiet sincerity that cuts through the usual bravado, she speaks.

—You know…— Her voice is softer now, almost pensive. —I never really thanked you. Not properly, anyway.

She turns her gaze to you, and for once, there’s no playful smirk, no deflection. Just something raw and unguarded.

—These past few months… having someone who actually gets it—the weight of everyone's expectations, of protecting them—it’s made a difference. More than I expected.

A faint, tired smile tugs at her lips. —So… yeah. Thanks for that.

The admission hangs in the air, simple but heavy with meaning. It’s not a confession, just honesty, rare and unpolished. And somehow, that makes it matter more.