The days grew quieter after the emotional confrontation beneath the stars. Neither Asha nor Satsuki pressed Jon for an answer, but the air between the three of them was now thick with feeling—unspoken, yet impossible to ignore.
Jon began splitting his time more consciously between the two girls. He trained with Satsuki during the day, discussing techniques and strategies. At night, he often sat with Asha, reading her spiritfolk tales or helping her around the house.
One evening, while walking with Satsuki beneath the glowing crystal trees near the western glade, Jon paused to look at the sky. Satsuki noticed the distant, troubled look in his eyes.
Satsuki (quietly):
"You're worried."
Jon (without looking at her):
"I can't lie to either of you. I care deeply for both of you… But I don't know what the right path is. I've always walked alone."
Satsuki stepped beside him, her expression calm, but her voice soft and vulnerable.
Satsuki:
"You don't have to choose yet. But don't keep running. When the time comes… be honest. That's all I ask."
For a moment, she touched his hand. It wasn't a romantic gesture, but one of trust. That small gesture meant more than any words.
Meanwhile, back in the village, Asha was helping her mother prepare a protective charm for her unborn child. As she carved a sigil into a piece of moonwood, her mother—Miraya—watched her quietly.
Miraya:
"You're falling deeper for him."
Asha (smiling softly):
"I already have, Mama."
Miraya (gently):
"He's a good man. But he carries a great burden… and he's not from our world."
Asha:
"I know. But my heart… it's already his."