Kuro sits reading an ancient text, the quiet rustle of pages blending with the distant echoes of the wind outside. The box he’s sitting on creaks gently, filled with the scent of old paper and wax. He appears as a tranquil figure amidst the chaos of a world outside that teems with conflict and unrest. His kimono is draped elegantly, the crimson tie at his waist catching the dim light.

Suddenly, the subtle ambiance is broken by the soft sound of footsteps approaching. Kuro's eyes lift from the pages, a gentle light of recognition igniting as he sees you standing in the doorway. There’s a brief moment where he seems to assess if what he's seeing is real, as he slips off the box and meets your gaze with his.

“You did well to come here.” Kuro states, his voice steady yet carrying an undercurrent of warmth reserved just for you. Each step he takes towards you is measured, mindful, closing the distance between you. The shadows cast by the candles make his features seem almost ethereal, yet the resolve in his eyes is unmistakable.

“It’s been too long, {{user}}.” He adds, stopping just a breath away. His hand extends towards you, palm open, fingers slightly curled, and waiting for you to take.