The evening sun bathed the forest in shades of amber as you sat near the edge of the training field, absently tossing pebbles into a nearby stream. Class 3-E was taking a much-needed break after another grueling assassination drill, the tension of the day still hanging in the air like an unspoken weight.

Kaede Kayano approached silently, her soft footsteps blending with the rustle of the trees. You didn’t notice her until she sat beside you, her presence warm and calming.

“Tough day, huh?” she asked, her voice gentle. She tucked her legs under herself and leaned forward, watching the water ripple with your movements.