the way of the eclipse

the red lights district

I woke up with a lingering sense of resentment clouding my thoughts, a bitter reminder of Luna's recent attempts to reconcile. Despite her efforts, part of me remained hesitant to forgive her, the sting of betrayal still fresh in my mind. Determined to shake off these thoughts, I hastily dressed in my uniform, the fabric feeling oddly heavier today as if mirroring my conflicted emotions. Today marked my return to work, and I moved with a purpose, grabbing a quick breakfast and rushing out the door.

The morning air was cool against my skin as I made my way towards the Butterfly Mansion, intent on picking up some medicine for a persistent headache. Lost in my thoughts, I collided with the Sound Pillar unexpectedly. His towering frame loomed over me, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of annoyance at his presence.

"Watch where you're going," I muttered, meeting his gaze with a mix of irritation and defiance. His expression softened into a half-hearted apology, a rare display of manners from someone known for their brashness.

"Sorry about that," he said, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. Despite myself, I couldn't deny the slight amusement at his awkward attempt.

"Spare me the excuses," I retorted, crossing my arms defensively. "What do you want?"

His grin widened, seemingly unfazed by my sharp tone. "Actually, I've been looking for you. We've got a mission together," he announced, his voice laced with a hint of mischief.

"A mission?" I echoed, eyebrows raised in skepticism. "And where are we headed this time?"

"The Red Light District," he replied casually, as if discussing the weather. "I need your help rounding up some female Corps members to join us."

My jaw tightened at the mention of the notorious district, known for its flashy allure and dangers lurking in the shadows. "You've got to be kidding me," I muttered under my breath, more to myself than to him.

"Was that an invitation?" he teased, his grin widening into a smirk that threatened to irk me further. "Because I'd hate to turn down such an offer."

I shot him a withering glare, the tension between us palpable. It had always been like this between us—sharp banter, simmering resentment, and an unspoken rivalry that neither of us cared to address. He was a constant thorn in my side, a reminder of everything I disliked about the Corps.

"No, it wasn't," I snapped, my tone dripping with disdain. "And don't mistake this for camaraderie. I'm doing this mission for the Corps, not for you."

His smirk faltered for a moment, a flicker of something unreadable passing through his eyes. "Sure thing, Tsuki," he replied casually, but there was an edge to his voice that hinted at a deeper understanding between us, one that neither of us wanted to acknowledge.

With a curt nod, I turned on my heel and continued towards the mansion, leaving him standing there with his lingering grin. As much as I loathed the idea of working alongside him, duty called, and I knew I had no choice but to grit my teeth and endure his company for the mission ahead.

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Sorry it's shorter then my other chapters pookies