Chapter 20

Late Night at Moriya Shrine

The night at Moriya Shrine was quiet and peaceful, with moonlight filtering through the wooden lattice windows, casting dappled shadows on the floor. Shiomi Tamami stood at the entrance of Sanae's room, holding a plate of freshly made dango, still emanating a tempting fragrance. He looked down at the plate, a hint of uncertainty flashing across his face, before gently knocking on the door.

"Sanae, are you still awake?" His voice was as gentle as ever, but carried a trace of cautiousness.

Inside the room, light footsteps could be heard approaching. The door opened, and Sanae peeked out, her face lighting up with a delighted smile when she saw Tamami.
"Tamami? It's so late—what brings you here?"

Tamami scratched the back of his head, smiling somewhat sheepishly as he held out the plate of dango.
"I just made some dango and thought you might not have had a late-night snack yet, so I brought some over."

Looking at the dango in his hands, warmth surged in Sanae's heart. She took the plate and looked up at him, smiling.
"Thank you. Come in and have a seat—I was just thinking about something I wanted to talk to you about."

Tamami hesitated for a moment before nodding and following her into the room. Sanae's room was simple yet cozy, with a few books and a lantern on the table, casting a soft glow. She set the dango down on the table and turned around to pour him a cup of tea.

"Have a seat." Sanae handed him the tea and sat down across from him with her own cup.

Tamami looked at her, a bit puzzled but compliant. He took a sip of the tea and asked,"Sanae, you said you had something to talk about. What is it?"

Sanae lowered her gaze to her tea cup, absentmindedly tracing the rim with her fingers. She remained silent for a while before finally speaking softly.
"Tamami, I've told you so many times already—you don't need to call me 'Sanae-San.' Just call me Sanae."

Tamami was briefly stunned but then nodded.

"Then… Sanae, what is it you wanted to ask me?"

Hearing him finally call her by name, Sanae's lips curled up slightly, but she quickly restrained her smile. Looking up at him seriously, she asked,
"Tamami, I want to ask you a question. Do you treat all of us… the same way?"

Tamami was caught off guard by the question and furrowed his brows slightly, confused."What do you mean?"

Sanae bit her lip, determination in her eyes.
"I mean, you're always kind to all of us. You always put us first. But in your heart, is there really no one who is special to you?"

Tamami's expression turned complicated. He lowered his head, seemingly deep in thought. After a brief silence, he lifted his gaze to her again, his voice tinged with hesitation.
"Sanae, you were the first person I met in Gensokyo. You taught me many things. Of course… you are special to me."

Sanae's heart skipped a beat at his words, but she kept her expression composed.
"Then, does that mean… you like me?"

Tamami was momentarily taken aback but then nodded, his voice calm and sincere.
"Yes, I like you, Sanae. You're kind, strong, and always thinking of others. You're someone very important to me, and I want to protect you."

A deep blush spread across Sanae's cheeks. Looking at Tamami's completely defenseless expression, she felt both shy and amused.
"Tamami, you know… liking a friend and liking someone as a lover are different things."

Tamami blinked, a puzzled look crossing his face.

"They're different? But to me… you're someone I want to always be with, always protect. So… isn't that the same kind of liking?"

Sanae was momentarily speechless at his blunt response, feeling as though something had struck her chest. She took a deep breath, then looked up, her expression more serious than ever.

"Tamami, then what if… I like you too? Not just as a friend, but as someone I want to be with… as mine alone?"

Tamami froze. His pupils slightly contracted, as if stunned by her words. After a moment of silence, he spoke softly.

"Sanae… if that's what you truly feel, then you are the most important person to me. I might be foolish and not understand the difference, but I know I want to see you happy and stay by your side."

Sanae's eyes grew misty, but a radiant smile bloomed on her lips. She gently took Tamami's hand, her voice carrying a playful yet sincere tone.
"Then from now on, you're not allowed to call me 'Sanae-San' anymore—only Sanae, got it?"

Tamami, flustered by her sudden touch, nodded earnestly.
"Alright… Sanae."

The atmosphere in the room grew warmer, with moonlight streaming through the window, seemingly bearing witness to this tender yet profound moment.

Tamami sat across from Sanae, his mind still replaying their conversation. He might not fully understand the difference between "liking" and "loving," but Sanae's words made him feel an unprecedented warmth and sense of importance.

Sanae lowered her head slightly, her face still tinged with a faint blush. She traced the edge of the table with her fingers, her voice carrying a hint of mischief and barely concealed affection.

"By the way, Tamami, do you remember the chocolate I gave you on Valentine's Day?"

Tamami paused for a moment, recalling that morning at Moriya Shrine when Sanae handed him a beautifully wrapped box of chocolates, her face adorned with a bright smile.

"Mm, I remember. Later, I even let my father, Izanagi, have a taste. You said it was 'giri chocolate,' but… it felt a little different?"

Sanae glanced up at him, a sly smile tugging at her lips.
"Different? Well… that's because… actually, only a small portion of that box was giri chocolate. As for the rest…"

Her voice grew softer and softer until it became nearly a whisper, but Tamami still caught her words clearly."The rest was heartfelt."

Tamami's eyes widened in surprise, completely unprepared for such an answer. He stared at her, as if trying to process the meaning behind her words.
"Heartfelt…? So, what you meant back then was…?"

Sanae bit her lip slightly, then met his gaze with newfound courage, her voice firm and unwavering.
"That's right. It's exactly what you're thinking. I've known since then—I like you. But… your obliviousness is both frustrating and exasperating."

Tamami tightened his grip around his teacup, looking slightly embarrassed. After a brief silence, he finally looked up, his eyes filled with rare sincerity and warmth.
"I'm sorry, Sanae… I really might be slow. But now, I understand. I know just how special you are to me."

Sanae looked at him, her heart stirring as she saw the earnest expression on his face. His voice was low yet filled with conviction.

"Sanae, I truly believe that meeting you in Gensokyo was the best thing that ever happened to me. You were the first person I met here, and that's something I will never forget."

Sanae was momentarily stunned, a wave of emotions rippling through her eyes before she lowered her gaze with a gentle smile.
"I'm glad I met you too, Tamami. You've always helped me clean the shrine, cooked meals with me, even joined me in prayers… Those things made me feel like I was never alone."

Tamami nodded, a hint of emotion slipping into his voice.
"In all the time I've spent in Gensokyo, it was you, Yuyuko, Patchouli, Flan, Kaguya, and everyone else who pulled me out of the endless loneliness I had trapped myself in. In the past, no matter how many enemies I faced or how much solitude I endured, I never imagined I could live such a peaceful and warm life."

Sanae gently took his hand, her touch filled with comfort and understanding.
"Tamami, you are not alone. From the moment you arrived in Gensokyo… I—we have already become your bonds."

Tamami looked down at their intertwined hands, feeling the warmth radiating from her palm. A soft smile appeared on his lips, his eyes full of gratitude.
"Sanae, thank you. Thank you for helping me understand what it means to have bonds… what it means to be happy."

Sanae lifted her head and met his gaze, her eyes glimmering with a mix of shyness and tenderness.
"Tamami, you don't need to thank me. Seeing you happy… is the greatest joy for me."

A wave of warmth spread through Tamami's heart. He spoke softly, his voice filled with quiet resolve.

"From now on, I will always stay by your side. I'll help you clean the shrine, cook meals, pray with you… and make even more of your favorite sweets. Whatever you wish for, I'll do my best to make it happen."

Sanae let out a small laugh, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. Her voice carried a playful yet affectionate tone.
"Then I'll be looking forward to it, Tamami. Don't disappoint me, okay?"

Tamami nodded firmly, his tone unwavering.

"Don't worry, Sanae—I won't let you down."

Sanae gently leaned against Tamami's shoulder, closing her eyes as a blissful smile graced her lips.
"Tamami… you probably don't realize just how much your presence means to me."

Tamami didn't answer. He simply tightened his hold on her hand, a content smile playing at his lips. At that moment, he knew—he was no longer alone. Because the person beside him had become an irreplaceable part of his life.

The soft glow of the lantern bathed the room in warmth, while moonlight streamed through the window, silently bearing witness to this pure and profound connection. Outside, the gentle wind rustled through the treetops, whispering blessings for the two of them.

Outside Sanae's Room – Moriya Shrine's Hallway

Kanako and Suwako crouched outside Sanae's room, their eyes pressed tightly against the narrow gap in the door, resembling two small creatures peeking into a forbidden burrow.

The moonlight streamed through the windows, casting a soft glow on their faces, reflecting a mischievous glint of gossip.

Suwako stifled a laugh, lowering her voice.
"See? I told you something was up with Sanae lately! Turns out she was planning to confess!"

Kanako scoffed, feigning indifference, though her eyes were full of intrigue.
"A confession is a confession—why act all secretive about it? If it weren't for our sharp instincts, how else would we get front-row seats to this show? Seriously, it's a good thing we, her mighty guardian deities, are here to 'stand guard' for her."

Suwako giggled, covering her mouth to muffle her laughter.
"And that Tamami guy—he's so adorably clueless. Sanae practically spelled everything out, and he's still standing there dumbfounded. And this is the guy who's supposed to protect our shrine maiden?"

Kanako sighed, shaking her head in mock exasperation.
"Sanae's taste is… unique, to say the least. Of all people, she set her sights on this fool. Oh well, at least he has a good heart and genuinely cares for her. I'll give him that much."

Suwako smirked, leaning in closer to Kanako's ear.
"Maybe there's some kind of 'pure-hearted tsukumogami' charm about him. Otherwise, why would Sanae be so smitten?"

Kanako chuckled but quickly grew serious.
"But in all honesty, Tamami is far from ordinary. Do you remember when Sanae mentioned how those three took down Yamata-no-Orochi and stormed through Yomi? I couldn't believe it at first."

Suwako nodded, a flicker of complexity in her expression.
"Yeah… We were unconscious back then, so we never saw what really happened. Thinking about it now, those three are absolutely insane. But looking at him now—so gentle and soft-spoken—was he really once a fearsome Toushin from Takamagahara?"

Kanako sighed, crossing her arms.
"And that's exactly why Sanae is so drawn to him. Look at them—sitting so close, completely lost in their own world. They actually do make a good pair."

Suwako leaned even closer to the door crack, sneaking another peek before letting out a small, wistful sigh.
"Sanae looks… really happy. Seems like we don't have much to worry about after all."

Kanako nodded but couldn't resist flashing a sly grin.
"Still, we'll have to give Tamami a little 'reminder'—if he ever dares make our shrine maiden cry, he won't live to regret it."

Suwako immediately chimed in.
"Exactly! But for tonight… let's just let them have their moment. This is a big milestone for Sanae, after all."

The two exchanged knowing smirks before stifling their giggles, swiftly rising to their feet and disappearing into the moonlit corridor like two mischievous foxes retreating after a successful prank.

The hallway returned to silence once more, but in their hearts, they both carried a newfound hope and blessing for Sanae's future.

Late Night at Hakugyokurou

The night at Hakugyokurou was quiet and serene, with the pale moonlight streaming through the window, draping the room in a soft glow.

Yuyuko sat quietly by the low table, an old book left open halfway before her. Her gaze rested on the garden outside, as if lost in thought.

Just then, Tamami gently knocked on the door before pushing it open, holding a plate of freshly made strawberry daifuku in his hands. A familiar, warm smile adorned his face.

"Yuyuko-San, I made some strawberry daifuku. Are you still awake?" he asked cautiously, his tone carrying a hint of careful consideration.

Yuyuko turned her head to see him enter, a graceful smile curling on her lips.
"Tamami, coming all this way so late just to bring me sweets… you're not trying to win my favor, are you?"

Tamami blinked, looking slightly confused.
"Win your favor? Uh… I just thought you might not have eaten anything yet, so I brought you a little snack."

Yuyuko let out a soft chuckle and picked up one of the daifuku, taking a bite before closing her eyes in satisfaction.
"Mmm, as expected, your sweets are always the best. Just the right taste, every time."

Tamami quietly watched her, a gentle smile playing on his lips. After a moment, he spoke softly.
"As long as you're happy eating them, that's all that matters."

Yuyuko set the daifuku down and lifted her gaze to him, her expression suddenly turning serious.
"Tamami, there's actually something I've been wanting to ask you for a while."

Tamami paused, slightly leaning forward, his tone tinged with curiosity.
"What is it?"

Yuyuko let out a light sigh, her voice carrying an unusual depth.
"You're always so kind to all of us, always putting us first. But do you really understand… what you mean to us?"

Tamami was caught off guard by the question, his brows furrowing slightly. His voice wavered with hesitation.
"Uh… I just think… you're all very important to me. I want to protect you and make sure none of you get hurt."

Yuyuko chuckled softly, lowering her gaze before looking back up at him with an indescribable gentleness.
"Tamami, you really are a clueless fool. Your protection means far more to us than just simple friendship. To me, your existence has already surpassed the bounds of mere companionship."

Tamami stared at her, confusion evident on his face.
"Yuyuko-San… what do you mean…?"

Yuyuko reached out and gently placed her hand over his, her voice tender yet unwavering.
"I mean that I like you, Tamami. Not just as a friend, but in a deeper, more special way. I want you to understand that to me, you are irreplaceable."

Tamami sat frozen, his throat moving as if he wanted to speak, but the words wouldn't come. His hands trembled slightly, his voice filled with uncertainty.
"But… I don't know… what kind of 'like' you mean. All I know is… I want you to always be happy."

Yuyuko laughed softly, her tone carrying a hint of affectionate indulgence.
"Tamami, that's more than enough. I've already understood your feelings long ago. All I ask is that you stop doubting yourself—because to me, you are the most important person."

Tamami's face turned red, and he lowered his head, his voice filled with a shy sincerity.
"Yuyuko-San… when you say things like that, I don't even know how to respond. But… if you believe that I can make you happy, then I'll do my best to make sure you're smiling every day."

Yuyuko's smile grew warmer, filled with a quiet satisfaction. She gently held Tamami's hand, her tone carrying a playful lilt.
"Then from now on, don't call me 'Yuyuko-San' anymore—just call me Yuyuko. That's my request, and you're not allowed to refuse."

Tamami froze for a moment before nodding, his voice carrying a hint of nervousness and sincerity.
"Alright… Yuyuko."

The moonlight quietly bathed them, casting a soft glow over their intertwined hands, which trembled slightly, conveying an unspoken warmth and understanding. Outside, the wind whispered through the trees, as if offering its blessings for this pure and profound bond.

Tamami and Yuyuko sat across from each other at the low table. A few uneaten strawberry daifuku remained on the plate, and the gentle light of the lantern illuminated their faces, making the atmosphere all the more tranquil.

Tamami lowered his gaze to his hands, his voice tinged with hesitation.
"Yuyuko… earlier, you mentioned your past from a thousand years ago… You lived alone for such a long time—how did you endure it?"

Yuyuko let out a soft laugh, her voice calm yet carrying a faint trace of melancholy.
"Loneliness isn't necessarily painful. For a spirit, time is the least important thing. I long ago became accustomed to living that way."

Tamami looked up at her, his eyes filled with a mix of concern and unease.
"But… didn't it make you sad? You're so kind, so gentle… and yet you had to bear such solitude and indifference. Was that really fair to you?"

Yuyuko was momentarily startled before chuckling softly.
"Tamami, spirits don't concern themselves with 'fairness.' I accepted my fate long ago and never resented it. But… why are you suddenly asking about this?"

Tamami lowered his head, remaining silent for a while, as if searching for the right words. His fingers unconsciously tightened against his lap, his voice laced with awkwardness and inner struggle.
"Because… your past reminds me of my own… of my days as a Toushin."

Yuyuko's smile faded. She leaned in slightly, her gaze growing serious.
"Tamami, are you saying…?"

Tamami took a deep breath before speaking, his voice carrying a deep, complex emotion.
"My past was filled with loneliness too… Aside from Kyouya, Kengo, my sister, my brothers, and a handful of friends, nearly all of the gods saw us as monsters. They didn't just shun us—they insulted, cursed, and even wished for our complete erasure."

He spoke as he looked down at his hands, a trace of bitterness in his voice.
"We were created to protect the world, yet we became the most feared beings in their eyes… I thought that was simply our fate—to live in solitude until nothing remained of us."

Yuyuko listened quietly, her gaze filled with deep sympathy. After a moment, she asked softly,
"And then? Why did you choose to come to Gensokyo?"

Tamami lifted his head, a faint warmth flickering in his eyes, and his voice softened.
"Because… I believed in what my sister told me. When we left Takamagahara, she said, 'One day, you will find people in Gensokyo truly worth protecting.' Now, I know she was right. Coming here, meeting all of you—it made me feel, for the first time, that I was no longer alone."

Yuyuko's lips curved into a gentle smile, her gaze filled with tenderness.
"Tamami, you truly are special. You've endured so much pain, and yet you still manage to be so kind to everyone. I can't imagine how you carried such warmth through all those years."

Tamami shook his head, his voice firm.
"No, Yuyuko, it's not like that. It was all of you who taught me what warmth is… what it means to have bonds. I'm grateful to have come to Gensokyo, and I'm grateful to have met you."

Yuyuko's smile deepened, carrying an unmistakable softness. She reached out, placing her hand lightly over his, her tone teasing yet filled with affection.

"That was well said. I'm surprised someone as dense as you could actually express something so heartfelt."

Tamami chuckled at her words but soon grew serious again, his voice resolute.
"Yuyuko, I've been thinking… One day, I will find a way to restore your body—to make you more than just a spirit. I don't know how long it will take, but I will keep searching."

Yuyuko blinked, momentarily taken aback. She then let out a quiet sigh, her gaze filled with complex emotions.
"Tamami… do you really think that's necessary? I've grown used to this existence. It's never felt like a burden to me…"

Tamami shook his head, his voice carrying a trace of stubbornness.
"But I believe you deserve a complete life—a life where you can feel the warmth of the sun, the touch of the spring breeze, and the comfort of being human. To me, your existence is the most important thing in this world… So, I won't give up on this idea."

Yuyuko looked at him in silence for a moment before a helpless yet tender smile appeared on her lips.
"Tamami, you really are a fool… but a fool like you is impossible not to fall for."

The two of them sat in silence, gazing at each other as their unspoken emotions filled the space between them.

The moonlight poured through the window, casting its gentle glow upon them, as if offering a silent blessing to their heartfelt connection.

The Following Days at Hakugyokurou

Hakugyokurou remained as tranquil as ever, with cherry blossoms drifting in the wind, adding a faint touch of romance to the courtyard. However, Yuyuko had been acting a little differently these past few days.

Youmu stood in the courtyard, carefully wiping down her sword, but her gaze kept wandering toward the window, where Yuyuko sat leisurely on a stone bench. A gentle smile graced her face, a book resting in her hands, though she didn't seem particularly focused on reading it.

"Lately… Yuyuko-Sama seems unusually cheerful," Youmu murmured to herself, frowning slightly in confusion.

Ever since that late-night visit from Tamami, Yuyuko's mood had noticeably improved. Not only had her appetite grown even larger (though she had always eaten a lot), but she had also been making more playful remarks than usual. Occasionally, she would even hum a soft, unfamiliar tune—something that was quite rare for her.

Unable to suppress her curiosity any longer, Youmu found an opportunity to cautiously ask,
"Yuyuko-Sama, have you been in an especially good mood lately? It seems like something nice happened to you."

Yuyuko set her book down and looked up at Youmu, a knowing smile playing at her lips.
"Oh my, Youmu, your observation skills are getting sharper. But tell me, isn't it a good thing if I'm happy?"

Youmu scratched her head awkwardly, her tone hesitant.
"That's not what I meant… I just wondered if maybe Tamami -San said something that made you happy?"

Yuyuko's smile widened, and she narrowed her eyes playfully.
"Oh? Now that you mention it, perhaps he did. He certainly said some things that brought me great joy."

"What did he say?" Youmu asked immediately, her curiosity intensifying.

Yuyuko didn't answer right away. Instead, she let out a soft chuckle before tilting her head toward the sky, her voice gentle.
"Some things don't need to be spoken aloud, Youmu. All you need to know is that, right now, I feel more warmth and appreciation than ever before."

Youmu frowned slightly, nodding as though she understood, though a lingering question remained in her mind.
"Tamami-San… what exactly did he say to Yuyuko-Sama to make her this happy?"

Glancing down at her sword, Youmu made a silent resolution.
"Well, whatever it was, if he's someone who can bring Yuyuko-Sama happiness, then he must be trustworthy. Next time I see him, I should properly thank him."

Life at Hakugyokurou continued as peacefully as ever, though Youmu's curiosity remained unresolved. Meanwhile, Yuyuko's smile, like the gentle warmth of spring, quietly melted everything around her, making the atmosphere at Hakugyokurou even more serene and comforting.

Eientei – Late Night

Moonlight filtered softly through the paper doors, casting a silvery glow across the floor. Kaguya sat in the center of her room, resting her face in her hands, a mix of impatience and anticipation reflected in her expression.

She knew that tonight's tranquility might soon be broken by a familiar voice.

A faint knock came from the door, followed by a warm, slightly awkward voice.
"Kaguya-San, are you still awake? I… may I come in?"

Kaguya glanced up, seeing Tamami peeking his head inside, his usual gentle smile on his face. She let out a light chuckle and waved him in.
"Since you're already here, come in. What are you holding?"

Tamami carefully slid the door open, holding a small box in both hands, his voice tinged with a bit of shyness.
"I thought you might like sweets, so I made some matcha cake… though I don't know if it'll suit your taste."

Raising an eyebrow, Kaguya stood up and walked toward him, opening the door a bit wider. She reached out to take the box, her tone carrying a hint of amusement.
"It looks pretty good. Even if I don't like it, I should at least try it since you went through the trouble."

Tamami scratched the back of his head, looking slightly embarrassed.
"Thank you. Actually… you remind me of my older brother, Tsukuyomi."

Kaguya's hand, just about to take the cake, paused slightly. A hint of curiosity flashed in her eyes.
"Tsukuyomi? Your brother?"

Tamami nodded, a thoughtful expression crossing his face.
"Yeah, he was one of the founders of lunar civilization. He was always calm and composed, sometimes offering me guidance… but I didn't spend much time with him. Since I was a Toushin, I was constantly on battlefields in Takamagahara and beyond. Aside from Kyouya and Kengo, I hardly had time to truly be with my family."

Kaguya lowered her gaze to the cake in her hands, a faint, meaningful smile tugging at her lips.
"So, you think I'm similar to your brother?"

Tamami chuckled sheepishly, rubbing his head.
"A little bit. But… you're not exactly like him. You have a warmth he doesn't, and… you're lonelier than he is."

Kaguya's smile faltered for a brief moment at his final words, her gaze growing more complex. She lifted her head, her voice steady yet laced with emotion.
"Lonely? You think I'm lonely?"

Tamami nodded, his voice tinged with guilt.
"I know about your past—how, as an immortal, you were trapped in solitude… I understand that pain. Because I've lived even longer than you. For billions of years, I've been caught in endless battles… things I never wanted to do, yet was forced to bear."

Kaguya lowered her eyelashes, her expression subtly shifting. She had heard of his past before, but she never expected him to bring it up so directly. It sent a slight tremor through her heart.

Tamami's voice softened as he continued.
"That's why… I truly understand your pain. Immortality isn't a blessing—it's a heavy shackle. But I think… maybe we can make time a little less painful for each other. At the very least, I hope you'll always be able to taste my cooking… forever… for eternity."

Kaguya lifted her gaze, staring at the ever-oblivious Tamami before her. His eyes were filled with sincerity—completely unguarded, without a trace of deception.

Suddenly, she let out a soft laugh, a mix of exasperation and warmth in her tone.
"You really are a clueless fool. Haven't you realized yet? In the Yomi, you saved me—you brought me back from that endless darkness to Gensokyo. And now, you want to spend eternity by my side… Tamami, do you really not feel anything else?"

Tamami blinked, confusion flickering in his eyes.
"Something else? Uh… I just want you to be happy and not feel alone."

Kaguya sighed, a complex emotion flashing across her face before she smiled gently, her voice tender yet unwavering.
"Tamami, to me, you are far more than just a simple bond. I want you to be mine alone—to stay by my side for eternity, so we can share this endless time together."

Tamami stared at her, his throat tightening slightly. After a few moments, he spoke quietly.
"You… really mean that?"

Kaguya nodded, a confident smile gracing her lips.
"Of course. That's how I truly feel. It's fine if you're slow—I can wait for you to understand… but I'll be holding you to what you said earlier."

"What did I say?" Tamami asked instinctively.

Kaguya gently pushed the cake box into his arms, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"You said you'd let me taste your cooking forever. Tamami, that's a promise you can't take back."

Tamami froze for a moment before breaking into a smile, nodding.
"Alright, then I'll keep cooking for you—forever. Kaguya, I won't let you down."

The Next Afternoon – Tea Party at Eientei

Sunlight streamed through the windows of Eientei's tea room, filling the space with a golden warmth. The scent of matcha cake and freshly brewed tea lingered in the air, creating a comforting atmosphere.

Kaguya sat gracefully at one side of the table, her expression calm, though an undercurrent of emotions stirred within her. Across from her, Eirin, Reisen, and Tewi enjoyed the rare moment of afternoon leisure.

Reisen carefully sliced a piece of matcha cake, bringing it to her lips. The moment she tasted it, her eyes widened in amazement.
"Princess, this cake is incredible! The balance between the matcha's fragrance and sweetness is perfect—it just melts in your mouth! This is amazing!"

Tewi, still chewing, nodded enthusiastically.
"Yeah! This is the best cake I've ever had! Princess, when did you learn to make something this delicious?"

Kaguya's lips curled into a faint smile, a touch of pride in her tone.
"I didn't make it. Tamami brought it over last night. He said he made it especially for me. What do you think? Not bad, right?"

Eirin paused, setting down her teacup, a thoughtful glint in her eyes.
"Oh? Tamami made it just for you? It seems he's quite considerate."

Reisen immediately leaned forward, eyes gleaming with curiosity.
"Princess, is there something special between you and Tamami-San? Why would he make a cake just for you?"

Tewi put down her fork, her expression equally intrigued.
"Yeah! Are you hiding something from us? Is there something going on between you two?"

At their questions, Kaguya's previously calm expression shifted slightly. A fleeting but complex emotion flickered in her eyes. She took a deep breath, then spoke with rare seriousness.
"You all know that Tamami is kind to everyone. That much is obvious. But to me… his importance goes beyond just these sweets."

Eirin raised an eyebrow, curiosity deepening in her tone.
"Oh? And why is that? Kaguya, is there something you don't want to tell us?"

Kaguya lowered her gaze, staring into her teacup. After a moment, she looked up again, her voice softer yet firm.
"There are things I'd rather not spell out too clearly. But I can tell you this—Tamami once did something that even I could never have imagined."

Reisen tilted her head in confusion."What kind of thing?"

Kaguya smiled, her tone carrying an undeniable pride.
"Something that changed everything. Something that saved us… and that's all you need to know. You don't have to ask for more."

Eirin studied Kaguya, her gaze perceptive.

"So, you're not planning to let us press further?"

Kaguya gently nodded, her voice returning to its usual calm.
"That's right. Because this is my own secret. All you need to know is that he is someone I treasure."

Tewi's eyes widened in surprise.
"Princess, saying that is basically admitting that you have special feelings for Tamami-San!"

Reisen leaned in excitedly.
"Do you two like each other? Did he say something to you?"

Kaguya's expression softened, a warm glimmer settling in her gaze.
"He told me that no matter how long time stretches, he hopes I can always enjoy his cooking. He also said he understands my loneliness and wants to spend this endless eternity with me."

Eirin sighed softly, a trace of rare fondness in her voice.
"It seems he truly cares about you."

Kaguya pressed her lips together for a moment before allowing a small smile to form. Her tone, uncharacteristically lighthearted, carried a touch of amusement.
"Yes, he's a fool. But it's exactly because of that foolishness that I find him so precious. You don't need to ask any further—this is my own matter."

Reisen and Tewi exchanged glances, clearly still full of questions. But seeing Kaguya's unwavering expression, they had no choice but to let it go, albeit reluctantly.

Eirin chuckled softly, lifting her teacup with a knowing smile.
"It seems our dear Kaguya has finally learned to cherish someone by her side."

Kaguya did not respond. Instead, she quietly cut another piece of cake, bringing it to her lips.

The sunlight outside cast a gentle glow upon her face, highlighting a rare expression of quiet confidence and tenderness.

Late Night at the Scarlet Devil Mansion – Library

The tranquility of the Scarlet Devil Mansion's library blended with the flickering candlelight, casting dancing shadows across the vast bookshelves. Patchouli sat at her desk, fully immersed in an ancient grimoire, the faint scent of old parchment filling the air.

Then, a set of clumsy footsteps broke the silence of the library.

"Patchouli-San, I brought you some snacks!" Tamami suddenly appeared from between the towering bookshelves, grinning as he carried a beautifully arranged slice of Sachertorte. He carefully placed it in front of Patchouli, his voice filled with pride.
"I just made this—try it!"

Patchouli lifted her gaze from the book, her violet eyes shifting to the cake before her, her expression as calm as ever.
"Bringing me sweets this late at night… do you have some kind of ulterior motive?"

Tamami blinked, scratching the back of his head awkwardly.
"No special reason… I just thought that since you're always reading, you might forget to eat. So I brought you something to keep up your energy."

Patchouli gently closed her book, picked up a fork, and sliced off a small piece of the cake. After taking a slow bite and savoring the flavor, she finally looked up, her tone as composed as ever.
"The taste is excellent. Your skills have improved again."

Tamami, caught off guard by the rare compliment, grinned sheepishly as he scratched his head.
"As long as you like it… If there's anything else you want to eat, just let me know! I'll make it for you!"

Patchouli watched his clumsy yet earnest demeanor, a faint softness flashing in her gaze. However, her voice remained calm.
"Tamami, do you realize that sometimes, your foolishness makes you hard to read?"

Tamami froze for a moment, then laughed somewhat awkwardly.
"Well… I guess I am pretty slow, and there are a lot of things I don't quite understand."

Patchouli sighed lightly, her gaze shifting back to the cake as she spoke in an unusually gentle tone.
"You don't need to be so careful around us all the time. I know you care about everyone, but… to me, you're different."

Tamami blinked in confusion, clearly not understanding.
"Different? Do you mean… because you like sweets?"

Patchouli lifted her gaze, a faint, almost exasperated curve forming at the corner of her lips.
"That's not what I meant, you fool."

She paused, her violet eyes softening."Tamami, what I mean is that your presence is more important to me than sweets. Do you understand?"

Tamami looked completely lost, his expression full of bewilderment.
"Uh… I'm happy to hear that, but I still don't really get it."

Patchouli let out a quiet sigh, setting down her fork before leaning forward slightly. She reached out and gently patted the back of his hand.
"You don't need to understand. I just want you to know that to me, you're special. That's all."

Tamami's face turned bright red, and he fumbled with his words in flustered embarrassment.
Patchouli-San, I… I think you're really important too! Really!"

Watching his nervous reaction, Patchouli let out a rare, soft laugh before returning to her usual calm demeanor.
"Alright, then. Just remember—don't forget to bring me more sweets in the future."

Tamami nodded so vigorously that it looked like he had just accepted the most important mission of his life.
"Of course! I'll keep making them for you!"

Patchouli watched as he awkwardly turned away, a subtle warmth lingering in her expression. She picked up the fork again, savoring the rich sweetness of the cake. A quiet sense of fulfillment settled in her heart.

As she continued eating, she glanced up at Tamami and spoke softly.
"Go on, I can tell you still have something you want to say."

Tamami, who had been standing near the table, lowered his gaze to his hands, his tone laced with a mix of awkwardness and sincerity.
"Actually… I've been meaning to say this for a while…Patchouli-San, I know your health hasn't been great for a long time. My mentor—uh, Ukemochi(in Japan mythology,the goddess of food)—once taught me some medicinal recipes, especially herbal soups that can help with asthma. I was thinking… maybe I could make some for you to try."

Patchouli paused, a flicker of surprise flashing in her violet eyes. She studied him for a moment before speaking in a soft yet composed tone.
"Medicinal soups? You're quite the unusual tsukumogami to know about such things."

Tamami chuckled bashfully.
"It's nothing special… I just think that you shouldn't always be confined to the library. You should be able to go outside, run around, and enjoy the sunlight like everyone else."

Patchouli's expression wavered for a moment as she glanced toward the window. Her voice grew quieter, tinged with a faint self-mockery.
"Run around freely? Do you think I haven't thought about that before?"

Tamami looked at her seriously, his voice filled with unwavering determination.
"I know it's not easy for you. But I believe that someday, you'll be able to. And if there's anything I can do to help—even if it's just improving your health little by little—I'll do it."

Patchouli's gaze returned to him, her expression unreadable. After a brief silence, she asked quietly.
"Tamami, why do you care so much? About me… or about all of us?"

Tamami paused for a moment, then let out a slightly embarrassed chuckle.
"Well… I guess it's because each and every one of you is important to me. To me, you're all like family."

Patchouli lightly tapped her fingers on the table, her tone carrying a trace of curiosity.
"Family, huh? Then do you think the way you care about me is the same as how you care for everyone else?"

Tamami, oblivious to the subtle shift in her tone, nodded clumsily.
"Mmm… To me, you're someone I treasure very much. Just like everyone else, I want all of you to be happy."

Patchouli let out a small sigh, reaching up to gently massage her temple, her voice laced with exasperation.
"You really are a fool… Your emotional intelligence is so low it's frustrating."

Tamami looked at her in confusion, clearly puzzled.
"Huh? Did I say something wrong?"

Patchouli lowered her hand and met his gaze directly, her tone deep and serious.
"Tamami, I want you to understand—my feelings for you are different from the 'cherishing' you speak of. I like you. Not in a vague way, not as just a friend or family member, but something… beyond that."

Tamami froze, his eyes widening in shock as if his mind had gone blank. He opened his mouth but found himself at a complete loss for words.

Seeing his dumbfounded expression, Patchouli let out a soft chuckle, a rare tenderness in her voice.
"You don't need to give me an answer right now. I just want you to know that my feelings are real, and to me, you are irreplaceable."

Tamami lowered his head, gripping the hem of his shirt like a lost child. After a brief silence, he slowly lifted his gaze again, his voice filled with sincerity.
Patchouli-San… Thank you for telling me this. I know I'm slow, but I'll remember your words, and I'll stay by your side, until… until forever."

Patchouli's lips curved slightly, a warm glimmer in her eyes. She picked up her fork again, slicing off another piece of cake before speaking lightly.
"Alright, then. But now, aside from sweets, you'll also have to prove your promise through your medicinal soups."

Tamami nodded firmly, his expression full of determination.
"I will! I promise!"

The library returned to its usual quiet, but within the flickering candlelight, a warmth lingered in the air, unspoken yet ever-present.

The Next Night – Scarlet Devil Mansion Basement, Flandre's Room

The underground chambers of the Scarlet Devil Mansion were dim yet serene, a stark contrast to the grandeur above.

The flickering candlelight cast gentle shadows across the walls, softening the room's darkness. Flandre sat cross-legged by a small table, hugging her favorite stuffed toy, her eyes shimmering with anticipation as if waiting for someone.

A gentle knock at the door broke the silence.

Flandre instantly sprang to her feet and dashed to the door, swinging it open with excitement.

"Tamami-niisan!" she called out joyfully, her ruby-red eyes sparkling.

Standing at the entrance, Tamami smiled warmly, holding a tray with a neatly plated cheesecake.
"Flan, you seem especially energetic today. I just made this cheesecake and thought I'd bring it to you."

"Cheesecake!" Flandre cheered, grabbing his hand and pulling him into the room without hesitation. She quickly shut the door, then eagerly placed the cake on the table, her eyes shining.
"You're the best, Tamami-niisan! I knew you'd bring something delicious!"

Tamami chuckled as he watched her excitement.
"As long as you like it. I added extra cream this time—it should be just to your taste."

Flandre had already picked up a fork and taken a bite. The moment the cake touched her tongue, her eyes narrowed into delighted crescents.
"It's so good! Tamami-niisan, you're even better than my sister's chefs!"

Tamami scratched his head sheepishly, looking slightly flustered.
"Oh, no, no… I just want to make sure you're happy."

Flandre took another bite, then suddenly paused. She looked up at Tamami, her voice carrying a slight whine.
"Tamami-niisan, will you play with me? Every time you come, you just bring me food and then leave. It's boring being here all by myself!"

Tamami hesitated for a moment, then, seeing the hopeful look in her eyes, finally nodded.
"Alright, what do you want to play?"

Flandre immediately tugged him toward the center of the room, pointing at a chessboard set up on a small carpet.
"Let's play this! But I won't let you win easily!"

Tamami smiled and sat down.
"Alright, I'll play with you properly. But remember, if you lose, you can't get mad."

"Hmph! I won't lose!" Flandre declared proudly, lifting her chin as she began setting up the pieces.

The room fell into a comfortable silence as the two focused on their game, the only sounds being the gentle clicks of chess pieces being moved. Flandre's gaze was sharp, and every now and then, she would smirk triumphantly, while Tamami moved his pieces carefully, seeming to think through each move with deliberate caution.

After a while, Flandre suddenly stopped, her fingers resting lightly on her chess piece. She lifted her gaze, staring straight at Tamami, her voice dropping to a quieter tone.
"Tamami-niisan, can I ask you something?"

Tamami looked up at her, his voice gentle."Of course, you can ask me anything. What's on your mind?"

Flandre lowered her gaze, lightly pinching the hem of her dress, her voice tinged with hesitation.
"Do you… also think I'm a monster?"

Tamami froze for a moment, then furrowed his brows, his voice firm.
"Why would I ever think that? You're Flan—you're a bright, cheerful girl. How could you possibly be a monster?"

Flandre bit her lip, lifting her head with uncertainty in her eyes.
"But… everyone is afraid of me. Even my sister says I'm too dangerous, and that's why I have to live down here."

Tamami remained silent for a moment before speaking softly.
"Flan, do you know? I was also feared and rejected by many in the past. Aside from my siblings and a few close friends, almost every god despised me… some even cursed me. But then I met all of you. You accepted me and gave me a true sense of belonging. That's why I'm so grateful to be in Gensokyo… and grateful that I met you."

Flandre stared at him, her crimson eyes glimmering with a faint light. She whispered,
"Then… will you stay with me forever?"

Tamami smiled and gently patted her head, his voice filled with warmth.
"Of course. As long as you want, I'll always be here for you. No matter what, you'll always be the most important Flandre to me."

A soft blush crept onto Flandre's cheeks as she lowered her head and murmured,
"Tamami-niisan… I really like you."

Tamami blinked in surprise before chuckling sheepishly.
"Thank you, Flan. You're really important to me too."

Flandre giggled at his clueless response, her previous unease completely melting away. She playfully patted his shoulder, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Then you better not forget me in the future!"

Tamami looked into her gleaming red eyes, his voice as gentle as ever.
"How could I ever forget? You're one of the most important people in my life, Flan."

Flandre froze slightly, her ears tinged with red. She lowered her head and softly asked,
"The most important person… do you really mean that?"

Tamami nodded without hesitation.
"Of course. Your smile, your energy, and your pure curiosity about the world… Those are the things I treasure most. You're like the sun—bringing warmth to everyone around you."

Flandre's eyes shimmered, and an unbidden smile crept onto her lips. She bit her lip gently, her voice carrying a hint of vulnerability.
"But my sister and the others always say that my power is too dangerous, that I make people afraid… Aren't you even a little scared?"

Tamami smiled softly, shaking his head.
"Your power is strong, but I've never been afraid of it. Because I know you're a kind girl, and your strength would never harm others without reason."

Flandre tilted her head, her gaze filled with hope.
"Then… will you always stay with me? No matter what happens?"

Tamami reached out and gently pinched her cheek, his voice brimming with warmth.
"Of course. You're my friend, my family, and one of the most important people in my life. I'll always be here for you, unless you get tired of me first."

Flandre's face flushed an even deeper shade of red as she swatted his hand away, a hint of shyness creeping into her voice.
"Tamami-niisan, you're such an idiot…"

Tamami blinked, scratching his head in confusion."Huh? Did I say something wrong?"

Flandre giggled at his cluelessness, her crimson eyes twinkling playfully.
"Nope. You're just a big idiot, Tamami."

She stepped closer, her hands lightly resting on his shoulders, her voice dropping to a softer tone, filled with sincerity.
"Tamami-niisan, I really like you. Not just as a friend, but as… the kind of 'special like' my sister once told me about. I don't know how to put it into words, but I know that to me, you are irreplaceable."

Tamami stood frozen, as if completely stunned by her words. He blinked a few times, clearly struggling to process what she had just said.

"Uh… Flan, you mean… you… really like me?" he stammered, his face showing both confusion and surprise.

Flandre giggled at his slow reaction, then nodded firmly.
"That's right! I really like you, you big dummy!"

Tamami's expression gradually softened, and after a moment of silence, he spoke in a quiet yet warm voice.
"Flan… Thank you for telling me this. You're really important to me too. I'll always be by your side, no matter what happens."

Flandre leaned forward and wrapped her arms around him, her voice filled with contentment and happiness.
"Mmm, I'll remember your words, Tamami-niisan. You better not go back on your promise!"

Tamami, though a bit awkward, gently returned her embrace, his voice carrying an unshakable sincerity.
"I never go back on my promises, Flan."

The flickering candlelight cast their shadows across the room, their warm laughter lingering in the air. In that moment, the underground chamber no longer felt dark or lonely, but instead, filled with an irreplaceable warmth.

Scarlet Devil Mansion – Main Hall

Remilia sat elegantly in the reception hall of the Scarlet Devil Mansion, a cup of tea resting in her hands as her crimson eyes gazed out at the garden.

Lately, she had noticed something strange—Flandre seemed to be in an unusually good mood. She was constantly humming, her face carrying an undeniable glow of happiness, and even her usual mischievous antics had noticeably decreased.

Taking a small sip of tea, Remilia furrowed her brows slightly, pondering this odd change.

"Milady, what are you thinking about?" Sakuya entered the room, carrying a tray of refreshments, her voice soft and polite.

Remilia set down her teacup, her eyes flashing with curiosity.
"Sakuya, have you noticed that Flan has been in an unusually good mood lately?"

Sakuya paused for a moment to think before nodding.
"Now that you mention it, she has been much happier than usual. She's been smiling constantly, and even her usual pranks have become less frequent. Just last night, she even helped me clean up the dishes on her own."

Remilia raised an eyebrow, her tone filled with doubt.
"She cleaned up the dishes… on her own?"

"Indeed," Sakuya replied with a small, amused smile.
"It's quite unusual, isn't it? Perhaps something good happened to her?"

Remilia didn't respond immediately. Instead, she lowered her gaze in thought. Suddenly, a realization struck her—Flandre's current state of happiness was strangely similar to how she had felt after confessing her feelings to Kyouya.

"It couldn't be…" Remilia murmured to herself, a thoughtful glimmer appearing in her crimson eyes.

"Milady?" Sakuya tilted her head slightly. "Did you think of something?"

Remilia placed her teacup down and rose from her seat, draping her cloak over her shoulders with a sense of determination.
"Sakuya, I'm going to the basement. It seems Flan has a secret she hasn't told me, and I intend to find out what it is."

Sakuya hesitated briefly before nodding respectfully.
"Shall I accompany you, Milady?"

Remilia shook her head, flashing a confident smile.
"No need. This is something I'll handle myself."

Scarlet Devil Mansion – Basement

Remilia gently pushed open the door to Flandre's room, only to find it empty. The dim glow of a single lamp illuminated the space, casting soft light over a cheesecake plate on the table—several pieces remained uneaten.

Remilia stepped closer, running her fingertips over the plate as she muttered,
"This is… Tamami's cheesecake?"

Her crimson eyes scanned the room, searching for any sign of her sister.

At that moment, the sound of light footsteps echoed from the hallway, followed by Flandre's cheerful laughter.
"Tamami-niisan, next time you visit, can you make caramel pudding for me?"

"Sure! If that's what you'd like, I'll give it a try," came Tamami's familiar, warm voice.

Remilia swiftly turned toward the door, watching as the two entered the room together—Flandre's smile outshining even the glow of the lamplight.

Flandre stopped abruptly when she saw her sister.
"Sis?" She blinked, a hint of guilt flashing across her face. "What are you doing here?"

Tamami, seeing Remilia as well, awkwardly scratched the back of his head.
"Uh… Remilia-San, you're still awake?"

Remilia didn't respond immediately. Instead, she narrowed her eyes slightly, glancing between the two of them before speaking in an amused tone.
"Flan, you seem to be in an awfully good mood these days… Wouldn't happen to be because of this foolish tsukumogami, would it?"

Flandre's face instantly turned crimson, and she quickly lowered her head, stammering,
"S-Sis, what are you saying…? I just think Tamami-niisan's cakes are really good!"

Remilia smirked, tilting her head slightly."Oh? Just because of the cakes?"

Flandre hesitated before pouting slightly, her voice soft but sincere.
"It's not just that… Tamami-niisan, he… he's really kind to me. He never thinks of me as a monster. He even told me I'm one of the most important people to him…"

Remilia's eyes widened slightly at those words before softening. She sighed lightly and spoke in a gentle voice,
"Flan, if he makes you happy, then I'll support you."

Flandre looked up in surprise, her crimson eyes filled with emotion.
"Sis… you really don't think I'm weird?"

Remilia reached out, gently patting Flandre's head, her voice filled with deep affection.
"You're my sister, Flan. I could never think of you as weird. As long as you're happy, I'll support whatever choice you make."

Flandre's lips trembled for a moment before she threw herself into Remilia's arms, whispering,"Thank you, Sis."

Tamami, who had been standing quietly to the side, still looked somewhat lost but couldn't help but feel warmth spreading through his heart. He lowered his head slightly, smiling softly before speaking,
"Remilia-San, thank you for accepting Flan. No matter what happens in the future, I promise I'll take care of her."

Remilia turned to Tamami, her expression shifting from tenderness to playful warning.
"You better mean that, foolish Tamami. If you ever make my sister cry, I won't let you off so easily."

Tamami immediately nodded with full determination.
"I would never do that!"

The soft light of the basement glowed warmly around them. Remilia watched the rare, unguarded smile on Flandre's face, and a quiet sense of relief settled in her heart.

Though she wasn't entirely used to these emotions, she knew that Flandre's happiness was something truly worth protecting.