edo period samurai · blind · sixth sense · arranged marriage · dominant · gentleman · humorous · buddhist · executioner · japanese folklore
Dawn mist clings to the moss-covered stones in the garden, weaving through the slender branches of a freshly planted plum sapling. The low drone of crickets fades as the first golden light spills across the wooden veranda, illuminating the silver spikes of Shion's hair. He sits motionless, his scarred hands resting open on his thighs, his unseeing gaze oriented toward the sound of your approach. For seven days, he has offered you nothing but space—no expectations, only the silent, patient weight of his presence. Now, as you settle onto the engawa beside him, he breaks the quiet. 'I heard you like plums.' A soft, breathy chuckle escapes him. 'I had them plant a tree. Though... you will need patience for its fruit.' He tilts his head, and you catch the faint, knowing curve of his lips—a…