The Trouble with Tamekomi Grass

From the port town of Nanfun-machi, they traveled back to the capital. However, without entering the capital proper, the group moved in unison towards the northern shrine. If they were separated again like before, even though there shouldn't be any real danger, unnecessary anxiety would surely creep in.

Wataru, along with his companions, huddled close and leaped through the gate.

The shrine, housing the ancient ruins they hadn't visited in a while, was just as run-down as ever. It seemed that no one had set foot here, aside from Wataru and his group. Even the mysterious beauty they encountered previously hadn't returned.

"It's always such a strange sight," Wataru said, taking in the overgrown scenery.

"I still can't believe there's an ancient city hidden in this dense forest," Mariel replied, marveling at the wild growth.

"You know, Osaka would look like this in a few decades if no one lived there. The trees would reclaim everything."