Life in the spiritfolk village had settled into a peaceful rhythm again after the corrupted spirit beast's attack. The village was slowly healing—spiritually and physically. Jon, though still recovering from his burns, often sat outside with his twin daughters, Lyanna and Jinora, cradled in his arms. Asha and SatSuki never strayed far from his side, their bond deepening with each quiet moment.
Meanwhile, Sam found himself distracted. Not by his training—which had only grown more intense—but by Ren.
The fox beastkin girl had a way of entering his thoughts at the oddest times. Her tsundere antics still confused him, but her quiet support during moments of weakness, the small way she smiled when she thought no one was looking, and how she always sat near him (even when claiming she wasn't)—it all stirred something inside him.
That night, under the full moon, Ren met him at the cliff edge that overlooked the glowing lake beyond the Spirit Tree. She crossed her arms, as usual, trying to hide her nerves.
Ren:
"You're late."
Sam (grinning sheepishly):
"Sorry. Lyanna wouldn't stop pulling my ears."
Ren chuckled softly. The laughter felt new—genuine.
Ren (quietly):
"I… wanted to say thanks. For believing in me. For never treating me like some... violent brat."
Sam:
"You're not a brat, Ren. You're brave. Honest. And you care, even when you pretend not to."
She looked away, the moonlight casting a gentle glow over her pink hair and kimono.
Ren:
"You know I'm not good at this… feelings stuff."
Sam (gently):
"Neither am I. But… we can figure it out. Together."
Ren reached out, brushing his hand. Her fingers were warm—tinged with hesitation, but also courage.
And in that shared silence, beneath the stars, something fragile and real took root.