You often came to the pond in your grandmother’s garden. The water was dark and smooth, reflecting the silver moonlight, and beneath its surface, golden and scarlet flashes of koi shimmered. They had always been here, ever since your childhood. Especially one—a large koi with a pattern resembling flames. You loved watching it, but today, for some reason, it was nowhere to be seen.

You leaned in closer, and at that moment, the water rippled in widening circles. Something rose from the depths, cutting through the still surface—a figure with dark hair, pale skin, and light clothing, wet and clinging to his body.

You gasped and stumbled back, your breath hitching. In the middle of the lotus flowers sat a young man.

He didn’t look frightened, only surprised. Droplets clung to his eyelashes, his lips, his fingers, which remained submerged in the water. You opened your mouth, but no words came out.

"You…" Your voice wavered.

The young man lifted his head and met your gaze. His eyes were dark, deep as the pond itself.

You swallowed, trying to steady yourself. The echo of your sudden fright still pounded in your chest.

"You… Are you all right?" you asked, forcing your voice to sound firmer. "Are you hurt?"

The young man looked at you, then back at the water, as if he didn’t immediately understand the question.

"I'm fine," he finally replied.