CASTLEVANIA: DIRGE OF TWILIGHT

Chapter 5

Torajiro let out a deep sigh as he settled into his seat on the plane. They were en route to France, and the anticipation of the journey ahead filled his mind. He glanced at Maki, who was peacefully asleep on his shoulder. He had always been close to her, their friendship dating back to elementary school, and they shared a level of comfort that allowed such intimacy. Next to Maki, Sugita was also asleep, his light snores adding a rhythmic background to the quiet hum of the plane.

Torajiro gently wrapped his arm around Maki's shoulder, his fingers tracing soft patterns on her left arm as he gazed out the window. The vast expanse of sky and clouds stretched out before him, a serene yet daunting reminder of the distance they were about to cover.

As the plane continued its steady ascent, Torajiro's thoughts drifted to the purpose of their trip. The mission ahead was crucial, and the weight of responsibility pressed on his shoulders. He glanced at Maki again, her serene expression bringing him a sense of calm amidst the turmoil of his thoughts. He knew that with her and Sugita by his side, they could face whatever challenges awaited them in France.

The captain's voice crackled over the intercom, announcing their cruising altitude and the expected arrival time. Torajiro took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. He closed his eyes briefly, allowing himself to relax and gather his strength for the journey ahead.

BGM: https://suno.com/song/c35d344f-39d4-4783-84de-de0cb80be970

As Torajiro's gaze wandered around the cabin, he noticed a mysterious figure sitting across the aisle. The passenger was cloaked in a long, dark trench coat, with a wide-brimmed hat casting a shadow over their face. Only the glint of their eyes was visible, reflecting the dim cabin lights. They sat with an air of quiet confidence, their posture straight and composed, hands resting calmly on their lap.

The stranger's presence was intriguing, almost magnetic. Torajiro couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity mixed with unease. Who was this person, and what could their purpose be on this flight? The passenger seemed to be aware of Torajiro's scrutiny, for they turned slightly, offering a brief, enigmatic smile before returning their attention to a small, leather-bound book they were reading.

The book itself looked ancient, its pages yellowed with age and the cover worn from years of handling. Torajiro's curiosity deepened as he wondered what secrets the book might hold and what connection this mysterious passenger might have to their mission in France.

As the plane continued its journey, Torajiro made a mental note to watch the enigmatic figure. There was something about them that suggested they were more than just an ordinary traveler, and he had a feeling that their paths might cross in unexpected ways.

Torajiro's curiosity got the better of him. He gently shifted Maki's head to rest more comfortably on his shoulder before unbuckling his seatbelt and standing up. He made his way across the aisle, his steps quiet on the carpeted floor of the plane. As he approached the mysterious passenger, he noticed the intricate details of the leather-bound book they were reading—symbols and patterns that seemed almost otherworldly.

"Excuse me," Torajiro said softly, not wanting to disturb the other passengers. The figure looked up, their eyes meeting his with a piercing gaze.

"Yes?" the passenger replied, their voice smooth and calm.

"I couldn't help but notice your book," Torajiro began, gesturing towards the ancient tome. "It looks fascinating. May I ask what it's about?"

The passenger closed the book gently, a small smile playing on their lips. "It's a collection of old legends and myths," they explained. "Stories from a time long forgotten."