A week had passed since Jon's meeting with Dryas. Life in the Spiritfolk village had settled into a peaceful rhythm. Jon trained quietly each morning in the grove behind Asha's parents' home, practiced ninjutsu and kenjutsu drills, and made an effort to contribute to the village with repairs, errands, and patrols alongside local warriors.
That morning, while walking back from the river with buckets of clean water, Jon sensed a new presence approaching from behind.
Voice (calm and clear):
"Jon Snow?"
He turned, alert but not alarmed. Standing there was a girl he hadn't seen before.
She was young, perhaps around his age, with an elegant yet disciplined air about her. Her long bluish-purple hair was neatly tied with silver ribbon, falling in waves down her back. Slanted hazel eyes studied him with a quiet, unreadable intensity. She wore a flowing kimono of deep violet, with intricate patterns of foxes and wisteria along its sleeves. A bushy, snowy fox tail swayed gently behind her.
Jon:
"…Yes?"
Satsuki (bowing slightly):
"My name is Satsuki. I serve under Elder Ursula as an attendant. I've been assigned to aid and observe you during your stay."
Jon raised an eyebrow. Her tone wasn't hostile—just serious. Like a soldier given a task she took very, very seriously.
Jon:
"Observe me, huh? Am I under watch?"
Satsuki:
"Not watch. Guidance. You are a guest. But the presence of a Tailed Beast bearer requires responsibility. I will ensure the village's harmony is preserved."
Jon set the buckets down and gave a lopsided grin.
Jon:
"You're a bit intense."
Satsuki (flatly):
"I've been told that before."
There was no hint of humor in her voice.
Jon studied her for a moment. She was clearly strong—her posture alone hinted at training. Her spiritual aura was refined and disciplined, very different from the warmth and openness Asha always showed.
Jon:
"Well then, Satsuki. Since you're here to guide me, why don't we start with a tour?"
Satsuki:
"Very well. I will brief you on the restricted zones, sacred sites, and expected conduct."
---
They walked through the village together, and while Satsuki gave clear explanations of each district—markets, training grounds, shrines—Jon noticed how everyone respected her presence. She wasn't flashy, but people stepped aside, greeted her quietly, and gave her space. She carried a kind of quiet authority uncommon for someone so young.
Jon (curious):
"You seem pretty respected around here."
Satsuki (coolly):
"I was raised by the Shrine Guardians. I passed the spirit communion rites at age ten and began assisting Elder Ursula shortly after. I've had little time for play or idle chatter."
Jon:
"No kidding."
Satsuki (pausing briefly):
"…That was a joke."
Jon blinked. Had she just… tried to joke?
He smirked.
Jon:
"Almost had me."
She didn't react visibly, but her tail twitched just a little.