[Noctium. He recalls that name, mentioned when they had first spoken on the network. His hand stills as Sizhui exposes the skin between shoulders — and nestled there, glinting in the light of the kitchen lights, is a teal-colored gemstone.]

I see. It reminds me of... [A frown touches his lips as he debates whether to share the thought.] It's similar to the suit markings. Almost as if it's meant to be a brand to identify us.

[Or worse, given all that has happened so far, in Sasuke's experience. While there was nothing quite like it in the Netherworld, he certainly recalls that dimension's other insidious influences. Quiet for a moment, he begins cleaning vegetables and setting them aside.]

Can you chop these? [Working one-handed, it's not a task he can do easily on his own.] It doesn't need to be perfect.