Jon's body lay still, resting on a bed woven from enchanted roots deep within the heart of the Spirit Tree's sanctuary. The room pulsed with ambient spirit energy, and glowing white flowers floated in the air like lanterns.
Asha sat beside him, her hand clasped over his. Despite being eight months pregnant, she had refused to leave his side. Her eyes were rimmed with fatigue, but she remained vigilant, whispering softly, praying he'd awaken.
Asha (whispering):
"You're always trying to carry everything on your own... Idiot... You promised me a quiet life one day, remember?"
Satsuki stood quietly in the background, arms crossed but her expression clouded with worry. Though often composed, this time her hands trembled. She had already helped apply burn salves and spirit-cooled wraps across Jon's ruined chest and arms.
Satsuki:
"He's stable… but the damage from Gyūki's chakra runs deep. I've seen spirit warriors die for less. He's only human—well, half-human."
Asha (softly):
"No… He's Jon Snow. He's stronger than that."
---
Meanwhile, in Jon's mind—he drifted in a dreamlike state. Floating in a vast black sea, he stood across from a towering silhouette: Gyūki, the Eight-Tails.
Gyūki (gruffly):
"You pushed too far, kid. You're not ready to carry my full power yet."
Jon (hoarsely):
"Then help me. Teach me."
Gyūki paused. His massive tentacles curled around the space of Jon's subconscious.
Gyūki:
"I'll admit it… you fought well. For their sake. But your body is weak. Reckless. You fight like you don't care if you live or die."
Jon clenched his fists.
Jon:
"I care. For Asha… for her child. For Satsuki. For all of them. That's why I keep fighting."
A low chuckle rumbled from the beast.
Gyūki:
"Hmph. Maybe you've got guts after all. I won't hand you my power on a silver plate—but I'll lend you strength when you truly need it. Until then, heal. Rest. And stop trying to die like a fool."
As Gyūki's chakra enveloped him gently like warm water, Jon exhaled.