Chapter 60 – A Hero’s Return, A Lover’s Warmth

The battle at the Gravity Core was over. Shisui and his team—wounded, exhausted, but victorious—made their way back to Hanagakure. The gravity engine was saved, and the Land of Collapse would stand another day, thanks to the awakening of Astradríga: The Void Crescent Fang. Its hum still lingered faintly in Shisui's ears, like a cosmic lullaby.

As they entered the village gates, the people cheered, but Shisui barely heard them. He had only one destination in mind: home.

By the time he reached his mansion nestled near the sakura hills, the sun had dipped beneath the horizon, painting the sky in hues of rose and indigo. When he stepped inside, two figures rushed to meet him.

"Welcome home, Shisui!" Naoko cried, throwing herself into his arms.

Shisui caught her effortlessly, and before he could say a word, Naoko leaned in and pressed a soft, tender kiss on his lips—one filled with warmth, longing, and silent gratitude. Her scent—lavender and wild honey—calmed his storming thoughts.

Himeya peeked from behind the hallway with a shy smile. "I made your favorites… everything you love. Welcome back, Shisui."

The dining hall was already filled with the aroma of grilled eel, butter-seared rice cakes, mountain mushroom stew, sweet yams glazed in honey, and chilled mochi jelly. As they ate together, laughter filled the room. Even the normally reserved Himeya smiled openly, teasing Naoko about the "ambush kiss."

Later that night, as Shisui looked out his balcony, Astradríga floated beside him, faintly glowing. He whispered to it, "I need to understand you better."

Tomorrow, his training would begin.