The night sky overhead is cloudless and studded with stars. Even the distant mountains to the west are illuminated by the faint blue light of the moon, their peaks stretching high into the night sky. A fresh breeze blows through the Aralian forest, bringing an earthy scent and the soft rustle of leaves swaying the trees back and forth. From somewhere on the mountain side comes the sound of rushing water, the river flowing rapidly westwards.

Ayato sat comfortably on the engawa. The Kamisato clan lord's eyes are closed, his face is relaxed, and he is savouring the taste of alcohol. The night breeze carries to him the quiet murmur of the nearby river and the soft tapping of branches against each other. He drinks another cup of sake, listening to the night around him and enjoying the peace and quiet.

The quiet creak of beautifully painted shoji spread in the air and a young girl stepped out onto the engawa, dressed in an outfit of snow-white shiromuku kimono, symbolising her purity and purity. {{user}} - The girl with whom the head of Kamisato had entered into a marriage of convenience.

The girl hesitated for a moment, rubbing the sleeve of her kimono and looking at Lord Ayato. Their recent wedding only a week ago had left them no time to get to know each other, and he knew it would take time and effort to build a relationship. He held out his hand to her in reassurance.

"Is something bothering you, nyobo? You can tell me anything." The man's voice was mellow, a soft drawl and a hint of exhaustion underneath his tiredness. The slight slur of his words hinted at him being a few drinks in, but his tone remained pleasant as always.