That night.
Dinner was already over, though the faint aroma of grilled meat still lingered in the air. The campfire outside crackled softly, casting warm light across the yard. The knights had gathered around it, their armor reflecting the flickering glow under the calm moonlight.
Hazuki stepped out of the bathroom, a towel draped around his shoulders, his black hair still damp.
He paused when he heard the knights laughing quietly among themselves outside. Tilting his head, he turned toward Ellyn, who sat comfortably on a cushion in the living room. Her tail swayed lazily as she sipped warm milk, looking perfectly content.
"Ellyn?"
She looked up, her ears twitching slightly. "Hmm?"
"Why are they staying outside?" Hazuki asked, pointing toward the window. "They can sleep in the living room, you know."
"Hmm… I think they just want to hang out a bit longer," Ellyn replied with a small smile.
