The skies were clear over Lake Lurenna, a quiet place far from the chaos of war and monsters. Flowers bloomed across the hillside, and the lake reflected the clouds like a mirror.
For once, there was no training.
No threats.
No responsibilities.
Just them.
Ryu sat beneath a tall willow tree, arms behind his head, eyes closed. The wind gently rustled the grass.
Reina sat beside him, her fingers lightly trailing across his calloused hand.
> "You've never changed," she said, smiling.
> "You've changed too much," Ryu replied, half-joking. "Used to be I could talk without getting kicked."
She rolled her eyes and softly leaned her head on his shoulder.
> "And yet you still talk too much."
They both laughed.
---
Moments of Honesty
There was a pause. One of those rare silences that felt comfortable instead of awkward.
> "Reina... I think I was scared," Ryu admitted. "Back when you confessed to me."
> "Of me?" she raised an eyebrow.
> "Of... what it meant. To care about someone. I thought strength meant standing alone. But I think I was wrong."
Reina looked up at him—eyes warm, soft, and unwavering.
> "I never needed the strongest man. Just the one who'd stand with me."
> "I wish I understood that sooner."
> "You're a slow learner," she teased, smirking. "But you're mine now, so I'll allow it."
---
A Dance Without Music
As the sun began to set, Reina stood up and reached out her hand.
> "Dance with me."
> "There's no music."
> "I don't need music. Just you."
With a grin, Ryu took her hand.
They danced, barefoot on the grass, under golden skies.
Clumsy at first—Ryu had never danced in his life—but Reina guided him with patience, laughing every time he stepped on her foot.
> "You're the strongest man alive and can't handle a two-step?"
> "I'm pretty sure Incriders are easier to deal with."
She laughed again, and in that moment, Ryu realized something:
This... this peace, this smile, this warmth—
was stronger than any battlefield.
---
After the Sunset
As twilight settled, they lay beside each other, hands intertwined, gazing at the stars.
Reina whispered, "Do you think we'll get more days like this?"
Ryu squeezed her hand gently.
> "I don't know. But if not… then I'll fight for them."
She smiled.
And for once, the world didn't feel so heavy.
---