The night air over Old Shinkotsu carried the crisp scent of pine and old incense, remaining completely untouched by the jubilant chaos further south.
Soft amber light spilled from the mana lamps lining the pristine gravel paths of the trio's temporary estate, reflecting off the dark, still water of the koi pond and washing over the wooden gazebo sitting at its center.
Inside the pavilion, a comfortable silence had settled over the round table.
Nom-Nom sat hunched over a small leather-bound notebook while she chewed thoughtfully on a piece of dried fruit, her violet slit pupils narrowing in absolute concentration before she carefully dragged the quill across the parchment to wage war against a block of arithmetic problems.
Sitting directly across from her, Peko remained a picture of perfect composure.
Her long chestnut hair swept elegantly over her right shoulder, draping down the front of her pristine white robes, which were traced with delicate gold embroidery.
