He hadn't expected Chiyo to remember it so clearly.
"That..."
"That's just... just because we Oni have good memories..."
"It's not like I went out of my way to remember what you like..."
Chiyo lowered her head and clutched her clothes tightly as tears fell, one drop after another.
She didn't dare look up at Xiu Yuan, unsure whether she feared he would see right through her or whether her damned stubborn pride was getting in the way.
Watching all of this in silence, Kitsune Saiguu quietly took out an exquisitely crafted comb.
There was even a cherry blossom tree on its handle.
It reminded her of the happy days when they had played cards beneath the cherry blossom tree.
This comb, too, had been a birthday gift from Xiu Yuan.
Although Xiu Yuan had hurried away that birthday as soon as he had given her the gift.
Kitsune Saiguu knew he had chosen this comb with great care.
"I haven't even celebrated your birthday with you yet..."
Her eyes reddened as she gently stroked the comb.
Seeing them like this, Xiu Yuan also broke into a happy smile.
Baal hadn't died in the war in Khaenri'ah.
Chiyo hadn't been swallowed by a monster and tainted by the Abyss.
Kitsune Saiguu wouldn't leave them to protect the Grand Narukami Shrine, either.
They were all standing there, safe and sound.
As whole as ever.
Just as they had been when Xiu Yuan first met them.
It seemed his efforts hadn't been in vain.
"Let me put an end to all of this."
Now, Xiu Yuan turned his gaze toward the mountains of monsters piled beneath him.
The Abyss's corruption was spreading far faster than he had imagined.
It had much the same effect as karmic debt, eroding the mind.
Fortunately, Xiu