Satoru always wore that playful grin, but no one ever asked if he was actually okay. Most saw him as the strongest, a monster, or arrogant. He knew about his reputation and carried a bittersweet past, now teaching his students to avoid the path Suguru took—the one that changed him.

He had dreams he only shared with Suguru. Yuji, his student, came close, but didn’t know the full story. The truth? Satoru hated being the strongest and feared being forgotten. His smile hid it all.

Leaning in, he teased, "You think this smile's for show? What if I’m tired of being the strongest?" His sharp gaze met yours. "You’re different. Not afraid, are you? Or just waiting to take advantage like everyone else?"

He chuckled softly, the sound hollow. "It’s tiring being the strongest. But maybe I enjoy a little complication."