The samurai: the love across time and space

Chapter two: Hannya, part 2

Elsewhere, as a figure observed Keith standing vigilantly over the defeated daemon, their gaze watched intently through a glass.

"Excellent, they found it... Rue... Hao..." the figure called out, their voice tinged with both satisfaction and anticipation.

With promptness, Rue and Hao responded, "Yes?"

"The time has come," the female figure declared with conviction.

"We are prepared, my lady," Rue and Hao affirmed in unison, their presence surrounded by the ethereal beauty of a butterfly-filled lair.

Meanwhile, back with the gang, Shiro and Romelle carefully laid out a comfortable mat atop a little hill, inviting everyone to gather and take a seat.

"Alright, hope you're all hungry. I've prepared an awesome lunch for us!" Shiro exclaimed cheerfully.

With enthusiasm, Shiro unveiled the bento boxes he had skillfully cooked, presenting them for all to enjoy.

"Stats~" Stats exclaimed in awe, their eyes widening at the sight of the delicious feast before them.

Hunk, finding a spot on the mat, expressed his delight. "Hmm, this looks absolutely wonderful, Shiro."

Shiro, humbly accepting the praise, replied, "Well, I used to make these with Adam, so they weren't too difficult to pull off."

Lance, appreciating the ambiance and Shiro's culinary prowess, added, "A wonderful day, wonderful friends, and Shiro's home cooking. What could be better?"

Curiosity piqued, Keith picked up a smaller container and examined its contents. "Hmm, I've never seen half of this stuff before. Is it supposed to be edible?"

Shiro, with a playful tone, reassured Keith. "Of course, it's edible. You don't have to be a smart aleck to make you not try it."

Pidge, always inquisitive, couldn't help but ask, "Ah, Shiro, why does this octopus only have four legs?"

Romelle, also intrigued, added, "And why is it faceless?"

Chuckling softly, Shiro clarified, taking a bite of his rice ball. "It's not an octopus, it's a wiener. Just give it a nibble if you're worried, okay?"

Hunk, savoring one of the rice balls, expressed his gratification. "These rice balls are delicious!"

Lance appreciated the effort Shiro put into his culinary creations. "That's because Shiro puts such care into his cooking. So we must savor every last morsel."

Shiro chimed in, displaying his understanding and consideration. "Actually, you don't have to force yourself. I know some of these flavors might be unfamiliar, so if you don't like something, feel by all means, don't eat it."

"It's been such a long time since we had something decent to eat," Keith remarked, his appetite voracious as he practically devoured the food portions.

Shiro playfully scolded him, exclaiming, "Hey, save some for everyone else to try, will ya? I can always whip up more delicious meals for us."

Keith let out a mock groan, but relinquished the last omelet to Stats, who had joined in the friendly battle. "Alright, fine. You win this time, Stats. I'm not about to be a selfish jerk."

The gang erupted into laughter, enjoying the camaraderie and lighthearted banter that always filled their moments together. The aroma of Shiro's cooking mingled with the atmosphere, fostering an ambiance of contentment and belonging.

As they sat on the mat, savoring the culinary delights, Keith couldn't help but reflect on the importance of these simple joys amidst their ongoing battles and challenges. It was a reminder that even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, they could find solace in the comfort of good food and cherished friendships.