While Miko was leisurely savoring her Fried Tofu, the rich aroma of the dish lingering in the air, the group's moment of tranquility was gently interrupted by the approach of a woman. Her voice carried over the night air like a fine silk thread, smooth and refined.
"Greetings."
The tone was mature yet melodious, and Miko's fox-like ears twitched ever so slightly at the sound. A slow, knowing smile graced her lips before she even turned to look.
"Oh my, I know that voice."
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She shifted in her seat, her eyes glinting with curiosity as she gazed upon the newcomer. The woman standing before them possessed an air of quiet grace—her fair skin glowing softly under the lantern lights. Her long hair cascaded in a mesmerizing gradient of deep to icy blues, the ends curling delicately. Two ornamental buns sat atop her head, decorated with intricate fan-like accessories that swayed subtly with her movements. But what stood out most were her droopy yet enchanting eyes—purple irises swirling with a hypnotic spiral at their centers.
The woman smiled warmly. "Hello, Miko. It's been some time."
Momon, who had been quietly observing the exchange, immediately noted the woman's unusual features. The tail, the pointed ears, the spiral eyes—it was clear that she was no ordinary human. His masked face tilted slightly, his curiosity piqued. "A youkai," he thought to himself, though he kept the observation to himself for the moment.
Miko placed a hand on her hip and gave an amused chuckle. "My old friend Mizuki... I must say, I had no idea you had come to Inazuma. I thought you were still living in Natlan."
The woman—Mizuki—tilted her head ever so slightly, her expression relaxed yet refined. "I recently returned, and with that, I have also taken up a new endeavor. I am now a major shareholder of the Aisa Bathhouse."
"Ahh, so that's where you've been hiding," Miko smirked knowingly. "I do recall you venturing to Natlan to study their artificial hot springs, wishing to perfect the craft."
Mizuki gave a light, almost musical laugh. "That's right. I spent some time there learning the methods they use to regulate geothermal energy and enhance the waters' rejuvenating properties. And now, I have put that knowledge to good use."
She then turned her attention toward the travelers, her gaze sweeping over Aether, Momon, and Paimon with quiet interest.
"Ah, but where are my manners?" Miko suddenly gestured with a flourish. "Travelers, allow me to introduce an old youkai friend of mine—Yumemizuki Mizuki. She is a yumekui-baku—a rather fascinating type of youkai with the ability to slip into one's dreams and devour the nightmares that prey upon a slumbering mind."
Mizuki gave a graceful bow, her voice laced with warmth. "It is an honor to meet you, Honorary Knights. I hope your time in Inazuma has been enjoyable."
