Gleam in the Shadows

Keito’s paws froze mid-sip as Asahi’s voice filled the air. His eyes widened in shock, nearly dropping his cup. She spoke. For a moment, he couldn’t find his own words, too stunned to react. He had left when she was still silent, her finding her voice while he was gone was a revelation that hit him deeply.

He placed his cup down slowly, his gaze never leaving her. “Asahi... you spoke,” he whispered, awe and emotion filling his voice. He leaned in slightly, his heart swelling with a mix of pride and disbelief. “I... I never thought I’d hear you.”

His chest tightened, but he quickly steadied himself, not wanting to overwhelm her. “Oto-san tasked you with this?” Keito’s surprise grew even more, though he could see the weight it placed on her. Our older siblings. The thought alone was daunting. “It’s dangerous out there,” he said, his voice soft but serious. “But I can help. I’ll tell you everything I know, where I’ve been.”

He smiled gently, his heart still reeling. “I’m just… really proud of you.”

"Speech"