Higashino Kanade meditated, emptying his mind of all stray thoughts and bringing himself to his peak combat condition.
At midnight, the door to Higashino Kanade's room slid open, and a white elf walked in. It was Ryougi Shiki, dressed in white pajamas.
Ryougi Shiki held her hands behind her back, awkwardly seeming to hide something. Her hesitant expression was rather adorable.
"The moon is beautiful tonight." Higashino Kanade opened his eyes and spoke first.
"...Mm."
As if she had made up her mind, Ryougi Shiki walked up to Higashino Kanade, took a katana from behind her back, and handed it to him. "Take it! I asked my father for this."
Higashino Kanade froze for a moment before accepting the sword and examining it closely.
The instant it entered his hand, Higashino Kanade sensed a savage aura. This was undoubtedly a killing blade, one that had already drunk the blood of many people. It had become a sharp weapon somewhere between a Mage's Garment and an ordinary weapon.
The sword was beautiful. Its scabbard was made of iron, and when the blade left its sheath, its cold gleam made one's heart tremble. Though there was no wind outside, the room began to stir with gusts.
"This sword is called Kuji-kane Sada. It is a treasured blade passed down through the Ryougi Family since the age of exorcists. It may not be much use to you, but I hope it can help." Ryougi Shiki's cheeks reddened as she spoke awkwardly.
Although she knew she could not be of much help to Higashino Kanade, Ryougi Shiki still wanted to do everything she could for him. Even the slightest bit would be enough.
Ryougi Shiki looked at Higashino Kanade expectantly, as though hoping he would say something.
"This helps a lot. I was just