The morning sun broke over the horizon, and a fresh new day unfolded, clean and bright.
Ishigami Village shook off the sleepy stillness of the night before. The gentle morning breeze dispersed the lingering midsummer heat, while the sea lay peaceful and serene.
Not a cloud marked the sky. Waves rose and fell gently, their fine ripples nudging the light and shadows into a slow sway. It was exceptionally fine weather for heading out to sea.
Day after day of quiet, uneventful village life had allowed everyone to relax.
Li Xiang wanted to go out to sea.
With nothing much to do, she had thought of going fishing, just to satisfy her craving for something tasty.
So she casually mentioned it to Ryusui beside her.
Ryusui had always been quick to listen to Li Xiang. Whatever she wanted to do, he agreed at once.
The moment he heard she wanted fresh seafood, he volunteered to handle everything and lead the trip out to sea.
The two gathered some basic fishing gear and boarded a small fishing boat. As they prepared to set out, Shrike, who had been wandering along the shore, fixed his gaze on Li Xiang.
Seeing Ryusui sticking close to Li Xiang as the two went together, Shrike instinctively followed them.
Ryusui glanced at Shrike as he silently boarded. He understood, but said nothing.
Without a word from any of them, the little boat slowly pulled away from shore and headed toward open water.
The whole sea lay calm and smooth. A gentle breeze brushed their faces, carrying a faint scent of salt and dispelling the morning warmth.
The fishing boat glided steadily over the blue-green water, barely rocking at all. Everything around them was quiet except for the soft sound of waves brushing against the hull.
Ryusui