Morning.
A few slanting rays of white light filtered through the half-open window, making her eyes redden as she returned from the dreamscape of infatuation to reality.
The clock on the wall ticked away. Wind howled outside, rustling the window curtains back and forth, while the entire bedroom remained silent.
Ayano had opened her eyes at some point, yet she still lay there without moving. Perhaps she had slept restlessly, because the tatami mats were a complete mess.
Sounds came from the living room. Ayano glanced at the time on the wall, then pulled off her blanket and slowly rose, finding a set of sleepwear to put on.
Harucha was cleaning the living room. Who knew what had happened after she left last night? The floor beside the coffee table was covered in shattered glass from cups.
The bedroom door opened. She turned and saw Ayano emerging with a mess of hair, clearly having just woken up.
Harucha was somewhat surprised. This was the first time she had seen Ayano so unconcerned with her appearance, and it was rare for her to sleep in as well.
"Harucha."
"...Yes."
"You don't need to come anymore."
After saying that, Ayano ignored her and headed straight for the bathroom, leaving Harucha standing there in a daze.
When she had gone home last night, she had even spoken with her younger sister Natsu, intending to ask through Natsu whether she could really stop serving Ayano in the future.
Had this woman come to her senses, or had she finally accepted reality?
Kirigakure had sent over a letter seeking peace. Shikaku had forwarded it from the front lines.
Its general meaning was that both sides should cease hostilities and establish a peace treaty. Kirigakure was willing to pay Konoha a certain amount in war