Chapter 19: The Lantern

In a storm, Misaki escorts Robin to the bus stop after his week visiting the Arashiki. They share anxious goodbyes and kisses, and Robin lights Misaki’s kayiri lantern before departing for Carytha, trusting her promise to follow within a week.

Misaki immediately approaches her father, confessing that she wants to marry Robin and leave. Her father gently but firmly refuses, not for reasons of blood or status, but because he believes Robin’s dangerous path would lead her to tragedy. He orders Misaki to marry Matsuda Takeru, arguing that Takeru offers stability and safety. Misaki, devastated, cannot change his mind. The lantern goes out.

A month later in quiet Takayubi, Robin arrives at the Matsuda house, determined to help Misaki leave if she wishes. Cornered between Robin’s pleas and Takeru’s lethal cold presence, Misaki adopts a ruthless tone to drive Robin away, fearing he will be killed if he fights. She blocks Takeru from drawing the Whispering Blade, then icily tells Robin to go.

Robin yields to Misaki’s stated choice and departs. Misaki breaks down, recognizing that she expected Robin to do what she herself would not—defy her family and the mountain. The next day, she finds the bag he left with her sword, Shadow’s Daughter—his final reminder of their bond—as she clings to her father’s promise that a safer life will be worth it when she has children.