Bab 302: No Need For Introductions

Morning sunlight filtered through the tent flaps as Kazuichi felt a light tap on his shoulder, pulling him from the lingering fog of sleep. Opening his eyes, he found himself staring up at the young woman from the day before—the one who had gifted him the woven bracelet. Her face was calm, but there was a subtle urgency in her gaze that quickly shook off any last trace of drowsiness.

"Kazuichi," she murmured, "the leader of the stronghold wishes to see you."

He sat up, blinking as he processed her words. Stronghold leaders didn't often summon visitors lightly; it must have meant something significant. Swinging his legs over the side of the cot, he glanced up at her, curiosity sparking. He realized he'd never actually asked her name.

"What's your name?" he asked as he slipped on his boots, glancing at her with a hint of a smile. "I don't think I caught it yesterday."

She paused, a faint blush dusting her cheeks as she responded. "It's Hikari."