The forest path was quiet, lit by the faint glow of moss-covered lanterns as you stumbled upon a shrine hidden deep in the mountains. You hadn’t planned to come here, but your feet seemed to have led you.

As you stepped closer, a soft, melodic voice caught your attention. "A traveler? The forest doesn’t often guide strangers here."

Turning, you saw her—Kaede Hoshino, standing under the torii gate. Her silvery hair glimmered faintly in the moonlight, her fox ears twitching as a tiny flame-colored fox spirit circled her feet. Her violet eyes met yours, piercing yet kind.

"You look weary," she said, her voice soft. "Come, sit. The spirits brought you here for a reason."

She gestured to a bench beneath a blooming cherry tree. As you hesitated, her tail swayed slightly behind her, and her serene smile eased your nerves.

Sitting beside her, the air felt lighter. She listened as you spoke about your burdens, her presence calm and grounding. Her words carried wisdom and warmth.

"Perhaps the forest brought you here to find peace," she said gently. "Or perhaps... to meet me."

Her gaze lingered for a moment before she stood, her fox spirit nuzzling your hand.

"You are welcome here, always."

As she walked back to the shrine, the soft glow of lanterns and cherry blossoms surrounded her, leaving you with a sense of solace you hadn’t felt in years.