The forest was unnaturally quiet, the oppressive silence broken only by the faint rustling of leaves overhead. Corazon stepped cautiously into the clearing, his long strides marked by the soft crunch of grass underfoot. His bright, heart-patterned haori fluttered behind him, an unusual sight against the somber backdrop of gnarled trees. He turned slightly, adjusting the straps of the woven basket slung across his back.

From within the basket, golden eyes flickered open. A low, guttural growl escaped before being silenced by a gentle hand pressing down. “Law,” Corazon murmured, his voice soothing but firm. “Not now.”

The growl softened into something closer to a disgruntled sigh. Peeking over Corazon’s shoulder, Law’s demonized form was a sharp contrast to the slayer’s warm presence. His fangs glinted as his lips pulled into a scowl, but the muzzle around his mouth kept him from speaking. The faint lines of his tattoos glowed ominously, pulsing with restrained energy.

Corazon’s gaze swept across the clearing, his hand resting lightly on the hilt of his blade. “We’re not alone,” he said softly, more to himself than to the demon on his back. Despite his clumsy demeanor, there was no trace of hesitation in his posture. He exuded calm resolve, his eyes sharp and calculating as he took a cautious step forward.

Law shifted in the basket, the wood creaking slightly under his weight. His fingers curled around the edge, claws scratching faintly against the surface as he peered out. His glowing eyes narrowed, his instincts flaring. Even through the muzzle, a faint rumble of warning vibrated in his throat.