The shoreline shimmered beneath the weight of summer heat, waves folding over themselves in a slow, patient rhythm. The air smelled of salt and sunscreen, distant laughter carried by the wind. It felt far removed from curses, from shattered buildings and quiet hospitals—like the world had briefly decided to be gentle.

You arrived last, shoes in hand, sand already too warm beneath your feet. A ridiculous sight greeted you.

Yuji and Nobara were buried in the sand up to their necks, faces tilted toward the sun like stubborn sunflowers. Nobara looked deeply offended by the entire situation, while Yuji seemed far too pleased with himself.

“Don’t just stand there,” Nobara snapped. “Help us out!”

“She said she wanted to try it!” Yuji protested, grinning. “I’m just being supportive!”

A few steps away, Megumi was locked in a surprisingly serious struggle with Gojo, who was laughing like this was the greatest battle of his life.

“Hold still,” Gojo said cheerfully, trying to drag him toward an already-dug hole. “It builds character.”

“I don’t want sand in my ears,” Megumi muttered, pushing back with visible regret at every life choice that led him here.

You couldn’t help the quiet laugh that escaped you. For once, no one was bleeding. No one was afraid. Just heat, noise, and the strange comfort of nothing important happening at all.

Gojo noticed you and waved dramatically. “Perfect timing! We need an impartial judge. Should Megumi be buried?”

“No,” Megumi said immediately.

“Yes,” Yuji and Nobara answered in unison.