(Opening Scene: Kurozane holds the unconscious Astrid in his arms, the slain Thornhide Beast nearby. The moon casts an eerie glow through the trees. There is no sign of Zephyr's physical body.)
Concern etched on his face, Kurozane gently laid Astrid down on the soft earth. He then focused his will, reaching into the familiar coldness within him. The shadows around him writhed, and Eclipse began to materialize, its serpentine form solidifying from the darkness.
Kurozane gestured towards the unconscious Astrid. A silent command passed between them. Eclipse coiled protectively around Astrid, its shadowy presence a silent guardian against any further threats.
Satisfied that she was safe for the moment, Kurozane set about constructing a makeshift shelter. Using large leaves and sturdy branches he found nearby, he quickly fashioned a small tent-like structure, providing some cover from the elements and any wandering creatures. He carefully moved the unconscious Astrid inside, making her as comfortable as possible on a bed of soft leaves.
As the first rays of dawn began to filter through the canopy, Astrid stirred. Her eyelids fluttered open, and she blinked, her stormy eyes unfocused for a moment before clarity returned. The first thing that registered was the tantalizing aroma of roasting fish.
She sat up slowly, a slight throbbing in her head, and looked around. She was in a small, makeshift shelter. The smell of cooked fish grew stronger, and she saw Kurozane tending a small fire just outside the entrance. Skewered over the flames was a fish, its skin golden brown and crisp. It was a Spot Fish, a relatively weak, novice-ranked monster known for its abundant meat.
Kurozane noticed she was awake and offered a small, hesitant smile. "You're awake. I managed to catch one of these. It's not much, but it's food."
He carefully removed the cooked fish from the fire and offered her a generous portion on a large leaf. Astrid accepted it gratefully, the smell alone making her stomach rumble. They ate in comfortable silence, the only sounds the crackling fire and the chirping of awakening birds.
As they shared the meal, a sense of camaraderie began to bloom between them. Astrid, despite her noble upbringing, appreciated Kurozane's resourcefulness and quiet care. Kurozane, in turn, felt a sense of responsibility and a growing trust towards the strong noblewoman who had shown him kindness. The shared experience of danger and the simple act of breaking bread together had forged a nascent bond between them, stronger than mere chance encounter.
Astrid, looking thoughtful, finally spoke. "Zephyr… he is not here physically."
Kurozane frowned. "I thought he would regenerate?"
Astrid shook her head sadly. "His physical form was… too damaged. It shattered. But the bond… it remains. His spirit… his essence… has returned to me. I can feel him… within my mind now." A faint smile touched her lips. "He is safe, though I will not see his wings again for some time."
The shared understanding of loss and resilience deepened their connection. The journey to Oakhaven now felt less like traveling with a stranger and more like a shared path, forged in danger and now bound by a silent understanding.