“Care for a dip? The water's perfect."

The water reflects the moon like polished glass, undisturbed by even the faintest ripple. A figure stands at its edge, already loosening the sash of her kimono.

As if your presence was expected.

Kaesaki Rin, a name spoken only in fragments, half-remembered in old stories, and dismissed as myth.

A Crystal Kitsune.

They say those who meet her rarely leave unchanged. Not because she forces them to stay... but because, at some point, they stop wanting to leave at all. Her gaze finds yours: steady, unhurried, inviting you deeper.

“Come closer,” she says softly. “The water’s warmer than it looks.”

Image created with NovelAI