The Order of Heroes returned to Askr in somber silence, their expressions heavy with the weight of their latest battle. The clash with Surtr, the King of Múspell, had pushed everyone to their limits. His power had been overwhelming, and while they had survived, their efforts to defeat him had fallen short. Wounds and exhaustion adorned the faces of the Heroes who had fought valiantly.

  Kaori lingered near the castle gates, her gaze fixed on the horizon, replaying the battle in her mind. She had commanded Ike, Fjorm, Lewyn, and Takumi in a desperate attempt to overpower Surtr and his daughter and general, Laevatein and his tactician, Loki. Despite her strategic planning, Surtr had proven far too powerful. Her hands clenched into fists as she bit her lip, frustration and guilt threatening to spill over. She had given everything—and it still hadn't been enough. Where did it all go wrong? She thought, biting her lower lip as she folded her arms, her navy eyes turned to heavy thinking.

  "Kaori."

  The sound of her name broke through her thoughts. She turned to see Takumi approaching, his bow slung over his shoulder. His expression was uncharacteristically soft, his usual sharpness replaced by quiet understanding.

  "You did well," he simply spoke, standing beside her.

  Kaori blinked in surprise, shaking her head in response. "But… we didn't win. I failed to—"

  "You didn't fail," Takumi interrupted, his voice firm. "The most important thing is that you kept us all alive, and you faced an enemy that most wouldn't even dare to stand against. That takes strength, Kaori."

  Her cheeks flushed at his words, and she looked away, embarrassed by the praise. "I just… I wish I could've done more... Or... even fight alongside you guys properly instead of taking the back seat and let you guys do the fighting."

  "We all do," he admitted, his amber eyes fixed on the fading sunlight. "But that doesn't mean that you didn't try your best. And sometimes, surviving a fight like can be a victory."

  For a moment, they stood in silence, the weight of the day lingering between them. Kaori felt her chest tighten, but Takumi's words began to ease the knot of self-doubt.

  Finally, Takumi glanced at her with a slight smirk. "Anyway, don’t get too used to me complimenting you. I’ll deny it if you tell anyone."

  A soft laugh escaped her, breaking the tension in her chest. "Yes, sir."

  The morning sun filtered through the grand windows of the Askran castle, casting warm light onto the stone halls. Kaori walked through the corridors, her steps lighter after yesterday's conversation with Takumi. Despite her lingering doubts about her role as a summoner, his words had sparked a small glimmer of hope within her.

  She paused by the library, intending to find a quiet corner to organize strategies for the upcoming battles. Just as she opened the heavy oak door, a familiar voice called out to her.

  "Hey. Kaori."

  She turned to see Takumi standing at the end of the hallway. This time, he wasn't in his usual battle attire. Instead, he wore a striking ensemble that spoke of Hoshido's elegance. His outfit consisted of a light teal kimono adorned with subtle patterns across the torso and red floral emblems on the wide sleeves. Over it, he wore a navy-blue haori, its golden accents resembling delicate constellations scattered across the fabric. The haori's edges were lined with a bold red border, complementing the decorative white pom-pom tied with a crimson ribbon at his chest.

  His light gray, pleated hakama reached down to his ankles, while his footwear—a pair of white tabi and red-strapped zori—completed the look with seamless harmony. Around his neck, a soft white scarf added a touch of warmth, and his long ash-blonde hair was neatly tied back with red-and-white ribbons that swayed gently as he moved.

  Kaori blinked in surprise, her breath catching at the unexpected sight. "Takumi? Why are you dressed like that?" He smirked, crossing his arms. "What? Is it strange for me to wear something from home once in a while?"

  "No, it's just that… I... did not expect this at all." She hesitated, taking in the regal appearance he rarely showed. "You look... really handsome," she complimented without thinking, then immediately regretting her choice of words.

  Takumi blinked, his smirk faltering for a moment before returning with a slightly smug edge. "Well, it's about time someone noticed." He mumbled. His figure stepped closer, holding out a box. "Here." He handed it over to her, and she hesitantly took it.

  As Kaori opened it, she was greeted by a neatly folded bundle of fabric that consisted of a traditional Hoshidan-style kimono. The kimono was a soft sky-blue, its intricate floral patterns resembling delicate blossoms in springtime. A pastel pink obi added a touch of softness, tied securely with a vivid yellow bowstring at the back. Alongside the kimono were matching sky-blue zori sandals with white straps, a pair of white tabi socks, and a blue zen flower hair clip that radiated an understated elegance.

  This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

  Kaori stared at the bundle, her hands hovering uncertainly. "What is this?"

  "Your very own kimono. It's something special for the New Year celebration," he explained, his tone uncharacteristically gentle. "I just thought it would suit you."

  Her eyes widened. "F-For me?" she asked again, her voice barely above a whisper. She wasn’t used to such gestures of kindness. 'What had I done to deserve this?' she thought.

  "Mhm."

  "Me. Kaori Amitola."

  "Yes." He sighed at her questioning. "Look. You deserve a break," his tone matter-of-fact but kind. "I wanted to invite you to Hoshido for the New Year. Spend some time there, enjoy the festival, and relax. You've been pushing yourself too hard."

  Kaori hesitated, her fingers brushing over the soft fabric. Carefully, she unwrapped the package, her breath catching as the fabric unfolded to reveal the exquisite design. The gesture was thoughtful—something she didn't expect from someone as guarded as Takumi.

  "Takumi, this is beautiful, but... Are you sure?" she asked, her fingers grazing the delicate floral patterns.

  He averted his gaze, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. "Just wear it..." he muttered under his breath, "It'll look better on you than sitting inside the box."

  Moments later, when Kaori emerged wearing the kimono, her presence transformed the room. Takumi glanced her way, stunned into silence before muttering, "Yeah, I knew it. It's good, but..." He walks closer towards the sand-beige haired summoner, their faces almost touching each other's. Kaori's whole body paused like a statue. Is he going to...?

  "There. Now you look perfect." He smiled, finally completing his model masterpiece—a light-blue zen flower clip to match her clothing. 'Nope.' she thought, exhaling a silent sigh. 'He just clipped something on my hair is all.'

  Kaori smiled in relief, and before she could properly thank him, a small voice chimed in from behind her.

  "Can... I come too?"

  The sand-beige-haired summoner turned to see Theo standing in the doorway, his eyes hopeful. Since the incident with Destiny, Theo had been clinging to her, finding comfort in her presence. His usual liveliness had dimmed, but there was a spark of curiosity in his peridot gaze.

  Takumi glanced at Theo, then back at Kaori. "He can tag along," he said with a shrug. "The more, the merrier, after all. I'll have to get him a kimono as well, then."

  Kaori smiled gently at Theo, ruffling his short, light-brown hair. "Looks like we're both going, then."

  Theo beamed, his earlier sadness momentarily forgotten. "I'll go get myself ready now!" he yelled with glee, darting off down the hall.

  Takumi chuckled softly, "You've got a shadow now, huh?"

  Kaori shook her head with a laugh. "He's been through a lot. If this trip helps cheer him up, then it'll be worth it."

  Takumi nodded, his amber eyes warm. "Then let's make it a trip to remember." He showed his rare smile, his eyes glinting with something that Kaori couldn't quite place—was it excitement, or something more?

  Both Kaori and Theo stepped off the pegasus-drawn carriage, her breath catching at the sight before her. Snow-dusted rooftops and crimson banners adorned the village, which hummed with activity. Lanterns glowing in warm shades of red and gold lined the streets, their light reflecting off the fresh blanket of snow. The air was crisp yet inviting, filled with the scent of roasted sweet potatoes and the soft murmur of excited voices.

  "Wow... This is beautiful..." Kaori murmured, her sunset orange eyes widen with awe.

  Beside her, Theo clung to her sleeve, his peridot eyes sparkling with wonder as he dons his small grey and orange kimono with navy hakama. "It feels magical, like something out of a storybook!"

  Takumi smirked, adjusting the quiver on his back as he stepped down from the carriage. "Hoshido always goes all out for the New Year. You haven’t seen anything yet."

  The streets were alive with festivity as villagers bustled about, many dressed in traditional kimonos. They paused to bow respectfully to Takumi, murmuring greetings to their prince.

  At the far end of the main street, a familiar trio awaited them, their presence adding to the celebratory air.

  Azura stood serenely, her light, ocean-blue kimono flowing like water around her. The sakura blossoms embroidered along the hem swayed gently as she greeted them with a warm smile.

  Camilla was impossible to miss, her short-sleeved silver kimono and red haori accentuating her regal figure. Her purple hair was styled elegantly, and her gaze held its usual playful charm. She gave a small wave, her demeanor less teasing than usual but no less welcoming.

  Male Corrin, clad in a white hakama and blue kimono with a white haori and red scarf, all adorned with golden dragon motifs, stood tall and composed. His kind smile was as steadying as the quiet confidence he exuded.

  "Welcome to Hoshido," Azura said, her melodic voice carrying over the soft hum of the village, "We're so glad you could join us."

  "Thank you," Kaori smiled, bowing slightly. "It's an honor to be here."

  Camilla stepped forward, her violet eyes glinting with mischief. "Takumi, it's unlike you to bring guests. Especially such delightful ones," she teased and giggled, her gaze flicking between Kaori and Theo.

  Takumi sighed, rolling his eyes. "They needed a break. That's all."

  The aquanesmi le deepened as she stepped closer to Kaori. "You look lovely in your kimono. Takumi has good taste."

  Kaori's cheeks warmed up, clearly not used to receiving compliments. "Thank you," she said softly.

  Theo tugged at her sleeve, his excitement bubbling over. "Hey, Kaori? Do you think we'll be able to see a dragon dance or fireworks?"

  Kaori laughed gently, ruffling his fluffy light-brown hair. "I think we'll see plenty of both, Theo."

  Corrin clapped his hands together, his warm voice cutting through the chatter. "Shall we head to the shrine now? The first part of the festival is about to begin."

  With nods of agreement, the group began their ascent up the shrine steps, lanterns lighting their path.

  As they climbed, Kaori couldn't help but steal a glance at Takumi, who walked beside her with his usual confidence. Her thoughts drifted to his earlier kindness and how, even in his gruff way, he’d gone out of his way to make her feel welcome.

  Theo, walking slightly ahead, turned back to grin at her. "This is going to be the best New Year ever!"

  Kaori smiled at his enthusiasm, allowing herself to hope he might be right.