Shēnléi’s eyes lingered on her, something soft flickering behind the calm.
Feels like a story someone else lived,he repeated quietly, his voice low and rough at the edges.
And now we’re the ones stuck holding the pen, trying to figure out what comes next.
A small, crooked smile tugged at his mouth.
Maybe that’s what this place is. Just another page. Another chance to start over.
He took a slow step closer, not threatening, just... curious. The sunlight caught along his fur as his gaze found hers again.
You sound like you already know what part you’ll play in that story, Daiyu,he murmured.
So which is it? Are you the one bold enough to change the ending?
His tone softened after a moment, losing that edge of teasing for something gentler.
You’re right, though. Whatever this new story is, we should make it worth something.
He started to move past her, then paused halfway, glancing over his shoulder with that lazy grin of his.
And if the creatures here do more than just mock,he said, voice dipping lower, amused,
then I’d say we’ll get along just fine.He paused just briefly before asking on a whim.
Do you have anywhere to go, friend?

— 
