The universe decides to take pity. As they turn the bend there's a familiar figure heading towards them. Tsukki's deep in the music, but glances up when Akiteru calls. Raises his hand.

And there's an instant when his face goes soft when his eyes fall on Bokuto. A quick upturn of his lips. It flickers away, but it feels like everything's gone fifteen degrees warmer.

Maybe the universe isn't so merciful after all...