The moon hung heavy over the Jade Bloom Lake, casting a silver path over the still waters. Floating lanterns drifted in lazy circles, lit by Naoko's spirit-weaving energy. Each flickered with soft blue and pink hues, echoing the tranquil rhythm of the garden.
Shisui and Naoko sat beneath the First Blossom Tree, its roots said to be older than the Daimyō bloodline itself.
> "Five years ago," Shisui whispered, "you told me we'd sit here again—when we weren't bound by duty."
Naoko smiled. "We're still bound, Shisui. But now... we choose those bindings."
Their hands brushed, and she leaned into his shoulder. "You've become someone incredible. The people whisper your name like you're already a legend."
He turned to her. "I don't care about legends. I care about you."
The air between them grew quiet, charged not with Arch Energy, but something more human—more sacred.
> She kissed him, soft and unhurried, beneath the light of drifting lanterns.
"I don't know what the future will test us with," Naoko said. "But as long as we walk it together…"
Shisui took her hand. "Then I'll walk through fire itself."
They stayed there, wrapped in silence and promise, as the lanterns floated on—each one a hope lit against the endless night.