Reassurance Under the Stars

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the rural landscape, Pandora returned to her cottage. Tharja, her old friend awaited her, sitting expectantly on a weathered wooden bench near the entrance.

"Evening, Pandora. How was your day?" Tharja's voice cut through the quiet evening air, clear and purposeful.

Pandora hesitated before responding, her usually wide-eyed gaze became gentle as she fixed her sights on the ground. "It was... good. Collected many things for the village."

Tharja's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Oh? Anything unusual today?"

Pandora's fingers fidgeted, before settling into a rhythmic tapping on her thigh. "Found rare herbs. Villagers liked them. Traded for goods."

Tharja nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "You're becoming quite the herbalist. The villagers are lucky to have you around."

Pandora's gaze finally lifted, meeting Tharja's eyes briefly before darting away. "I try. They are kind to me now."

Tharja's expression softened. "You know, Pandora, you're more than your past. You're forging connections, building a life here. Don't forget that."

Pandora's features hinted at gratitude, a subtle change in her expressions. "Tharja, it's... difficult. I'm different."

Tharja let out a small chuckle before patting the seat beside her. Pandora acknowledged what she was communicating and joined her. The pair of Kemuchiis briefly sat in silence, before Tharja gently rested her head on Pandora's shoulder. "Different doesn't mean less. Embrace it. You're not alone.”

She turned her attention the the evening sky, "Change can be challenging, but you're adapting. Just take it one step at a time. And remember, I'm here for you."

Pandora attempted a small smile, her hesitation fading momentarily. "Thank you, Tharja. Your visits help."

Tharja chuckled. "Well, someone has to bring a bit of the outside world to your doorstep. Anything specific you need or want to discuss? Trust me, there’s no silly questions, I’ve heard all of them from my students! "

Pandora's gaze wandered, as if searching for the right words, before she relaxed into a laugh, “Perhaps.. more on herbs? Another lesson.”

As the night settled around them, Tharja and Pandora continued their conversation, the dialogue a gentle dance between clear teachings and hesitant sincerity. The night passed as quickly as they always have for the two ancient friends, the stars forever their witness.