Yamiyo no Hotaru

Chapter 112

　The pitch-black night was engulfed by the freezing winter wind. The scene of powdery snow dancing in the air might have seemed magical to those living in the southern region.

　However, for her, it held no sway on her emotions. For those dwelling in the northern regions, snow could even be a cause of disgust, so it was not surprising. Moreover, from her perspective...

　"Is this where you've been?"

　In the darkness, she had been absentmindedly gazing at the bonfire when she turned her gaze towards the familiar voice. Her eyes met a young man in black outfit with a Noh mask.

　"...What do you want?"

　"Hahaha, don't be so unfriendly. We are comrades of the same important group, aren't we? It's just a night shift celebration. Look, I've prepared food."

　Ignoring her somewhat prickly tone, the young man smiled warmly and presented a wrapped cloth. Without asking for permission, he sat down beside her. She concealed the excitement that slightly quickened her heartbeats, suppressed her excitement, and disdainfully sniffed the air.

　"Don't compare me with you. You're a servant, and I am a household member. Our positions are completely different."

　As he spread the Furoshiki (wrapping cloth), revealing dried fish, dried rice, and steamed buns, he addressed her with a heartwarming offer. But all she saw was the contrast between their current situation and the times when they survived on the streets together. Their positions were indeed different now, but she couldn't help but remember that scene she had witnessed a while ago.

　"Besides, why don't you go back to that girl? It's a perfect opportunity. If you miss this chance, you might not get another one. Isn't it more meaningful than doing a night shift with these foul-smelling monster?"

　Taking the food he handed over, she retorted sarcastically to her childhood friend. After all, she had seen him with a girl from the same group, alone and looking affectionate. Although she didn't want to disturb them too much, she couldn't resist making a little jab.

　...Ever since witnessing that scene, an inexplicable irritation had been festering in her heart.

　"Hey, hey, peeping is not a good idea, you know? At least, give me a shout or something?"

　"What am I, your babysitter? Should I give you a round of applause?"

　"If you're offering something, I'd be happy to take it."

　Scratching his head, the young man responded in a troubled tone, and she proceeded to tease him even more. He merely shrugged his shoulders and responded with a casual smile. His nonchalant attitude only exacerbated her annoyance.

　"Get lost. You're annoying. ...I swear, do you want to be punched to death?"

　In fact, with her strength, it would be effortless to do so. That's why their fates had been torn apart like this. She was too powerful to become a servant.

　"......"

　"...What's wrong? You suddenly got quiet."

　"!? You're annoying! Your face is too close!"

　"Huh!?"

　Lost in thought, she returned to her senses at his words. At the same moment, the mask-wearing servant was right in front of her. Without hesitation, she unleashed a backhand strike, hitting him squarely in the face. Damn, she thought, it was too late to realize it. The young man fell backward, tumbling over.

　"Ouch, ouch, ouch... couldn't you go a little easier? I thought my nose was broken!"

　"I don't care. ...Rather, you should be grateful. After all, there's someone to take care of you, right? You can let her pamper you gently."