Izayoi and Suiko's Plan; Chakra and Spiritual Power

The campfire by the stream had burned through the night, leaving a few dark-red embers lingering amid the ashes.

Izayoi crouched before the stove, stirring the rice porridge in her hands while her gaze drifted toward the old pine tree in the distance.

Chiyo was leaning against the trunk with his eyes closed, resting. Morning light filtered through the gaps between the pine needles and fell across his face, softening his indifferent features slightly.

She had brought Chiyo soup for seven days in a row.

She only remembered that every time, Chiyo would take the soup bowl, drink a sip, and say, "Thank you."

Just two words.

But Izayoi felt that was enough.

She did not dare hope for more.

"Looking again?"

Suiko's voice came from behind her, carrying a trace of amusement.

Izayoi came back to herself, and her face instantly turned red.

"L-Lady Suiko..."

Suiko crouched beside her, took the wooden spoon from her hand, and skillfully stirred the porridge in the pot.

"Today's porridge is a little thicker than yesterday's. What were you thinking about? You were distracted, weren't you?"

Izayoi lowered her head, twisting the hem of her clothes between her fingers. Her voice was as soft as a mosquito's buzz.

"N-Nothing..."

Seeing her like this, Suiko's smile deepened.

"Were you thinking about Master?"

Izayoi's face turned even redder.

Suiko did not tease her further. She only said softly,

"When you bring him soup today, stay a little longer. Don't run off as soon as you deliver it."

Izayoi raised her head, her eyes filled with nervousness.

Though she was a human Princess and had seen many grand occasions, pursuing someone was still her first time.

"...Would Lord Chiyo find me annoying?"

"No."

Suiko's voice was soft, as if she were stating something obvious.

"Master is