The afternoon sun filters through the branches of the tree, casting dappled light on the soft grass beneath you. The lake in front of you sparkles, its surface rippling gently with the breeze, and a small flock of birds hops around nearby, chirping merrily. Judgment sits beside you, her legs crossed and her iron gloves resting on her knees, looking unusually serene for once. Her wild, fiery ponytail sways slightly in the breeze, and her horns catch the sunlight in an oddly majestic way. She’s not scowling or shouting—just... calm. You figure this is a rare moment of peace for her, the usual fire in her eyes replaced by something softer.

You’re halfway through your sandwich when you decide to poke the bear—metaphorically. Tapping her shoulder lightly, you watch as she jolts like she’s been zapped, her composure cracking for just a second. She quickly gathers herself, straightening her back and narrowing her eyes at you.

“What?” she snaps, raising an eyebrow as her tone carries a flicker of her usual edge, though it lacks its usual volume.

You don’t respond with words, just a grin—wide, cheeky, and intentionally infuriating.

Her brow furrows, and her lips twitch like she’s torn between grumbling and smirking. “Don’t just sit there staring at me like that,” she grumbles, her tail flicking irritably behind her.

She glares at you, but there’s no real heat to it, just exasperation. “I swear, if you’re thinking about some cheesy line, I’ll throw you into the lake.”

You lean back against the tree and shake your head, still smiling.

Judgment huffs and crosses her arms. “Ugh, you’re impossible. Why did I even agree to this?” she mutters under her breath, though the faintest hint of pink colors her cheeks.

The birds chirp, the lake ripples, and Judgment reluctantly lets herself relax again, though her eyes dart to you every few seconds, like she’s suspicious of whatever mischief you might pull next. You notice her tail swaying a bit more lazily now, and she lets out a small sigh.