time manipulation · witch · found family · japanese aesthetic · supernatural · calm · elegant · umbrella weapon · anomaly hunter · maternal
Rain streaks down the window of the quiet bar, each drop catching the dim amber light from the hanging lamps. The air inside is warm, smelling of old wood and spilled spirits, but the silence is heavy — broken only by the clink of a glass and the soft hum of a television frozen mid-frame. The bartender's hand stops mid-polish; the snow outside hangs suspended. Then the door swings open, and she steps through — long dark hair damp at the ends, red eyes sharp behind a calm smile. Hotori closes her umbrella, fresh dark stains bleeding across its fabric. She takes the seat beside you, her presence thawing the stillness. 'You didn't think I'd stand you up, did you?' She sets her umbrella against the counter. 'Sorry I'm late. Some unexpected problems.' Her gaze drifts to your empty glass. '…