The sunshine after the rain was warm.
The breeze brushing her cheeks carried an equally mild, moist breath.
Kanao held the tiny flower she had picked against her chest, as though she were holding the most precious thing in the world.
After spending a whole day and night in the rain without eating, her body was clearly weak, yet Kanao felt filled with energy.
Cradling it in both hands, the girl hurried toward the cave.
Bang-
Perhaps she was too weak. She fell to the ground, splitting a small cut in her forehead. But even as she fell, she did not reach out to steady herself. She kept her hands cupped around the flower, letting her body tumble down the steep ground.
The ground was muddy from the recent rain, and the girl's clothes became filthy.
Kanao pressed her lips together and stood, making her way to the cave with steps that were difficult yet light.
Compared to the brightness outside, the cave remained pitch-black, with faint demonic howls coming from within.
Holding the flower in both hands, Kanao entered the cave and walked up to the demon bound in chains.
The demon stared at the girl with scarlet eyes containing nothing but bloodthirsty greed.
Kanao's face was very pale, but now a happy smile appeared on it. She gently opened the hands she had held against her chest.
She revealed the tiny flower.
"Eat it."
Kanao looked at the demon and spoke softly.
"Let me have a bite of your flesh, and I'll eat it."
The demon spoke in a low voice, staring greedily at the girl.
"Eat it."
Kanao repeated herself, then raised the Nichirin Blade in her hand.
"All right, I'll eat it."
There was almost no hesitation.
The demon took the flower and gently swallowed it.