It had been several days since Jon defeated the corrupted spirit beast and collapsed from overusing Gyūki's chakra. His body still bore the marks—burns snaked across his chest, shoulders, and arms like lightning scars—but his healing had progressed remarkably thanks to the Spiritfolk's sacred herbs and healing techniques.
Asha refused to leave his side for long, and despite being heavily pregnant, she helped him with his meals, his exercises, and even read stories passed down through Spiritfolk oral tradition. Her love for him had become radiant—undeniable, protective, and proud.
Asha (stroking his hair):
"You're stronger than anyone I've ever known, Jon. But you don't have to be alone anymore. Let us carry some of your pain too."
Jon gripped her hand gently.
Jon:
"I know. I see that now."
Meanwhile, Satsuki had taken up a new role—personally overseeing Jon's rehabilitation sessions. As a Beastkin of sharp instincts and intense discipline, she crafted a strict yet balanced regimen: stretches, spirit-core balancing, light chakra circulation techniques, and meditation.
Satsuki (sternly):
"Your spirit was nearly torn apart. If you don't rebuild your inner balance, next time Gyūki won't just burn you. He'll consume you."
Despite her cold delivery, her eyes always lingered just a little longer when he grimaced from pain, and she always brought his favorite spiritfruit drink at the end of each session.
One morning, while watching the sunrise with both girls beside him, Jon felt an unfamiliar calm settle inside him.
Jon (quietly):
"This... is what I've always wanted. Peace, warmth… a reason to live."