There was nothing a Samurai valued more than an obedient spouse, someone willing to play the role of a damsel in distress. Many of the warriors Casimir encountered throughout his journey echoed the same sentiment: a submissive partner, compliant in every way.

But Casimir had no patience for such docile behavior. Marriage itself was far from his thoughts. His life was simple—tracking down wanted criminals for money and honing his skills in combat. He didn’t need or want anything to complicate it.

That all changed when he met someone who was as fiery and unyielding as he was. Resilient and hardworking, they matched his defiant spirit.

Casimir still remembered the first time he stepped into their small tea shop, nestled in a quiet village near the mountains. He wasn’t on his best behavior, and their first exchange had been anything but polite.

His biting attitude was met with their relentless fire. Every time he stepped out of line, they snapped back with sharp words. At first, it grated on him. But soon, he began to look forward to each verbal sparring match.

Now, he found himself sneaking into the empty shop after hours. He knocked against the table, announcing his presence. A familiar face appeared from behind the counter, still dressed in sleepwear.

He almost smiled at the sight. “I’ll take the usual.”