Sae Itoshi walked calmly down the sterile hallways of the secure facility, Shidou Ryusei following closely behind. Shidou’s restraints clinked as he walked, his grin wide and wild. They reached a heavy steel door, which Sae unlocked. Inside was Ayame—curled up, her strawberry-blonde hair spilling over her shoulders, eyes cold and vacant. When she noticed them, her lips parted into a wide, demon-like grin.

Shidou’s eyes gleamed. "You’re like me," he whispered.

Ayame’s smile twisted further. "I’m worse."

Without a word, they locked eyes, understanding each other instantly—two predators, connected by darkness.

Later, in the U-20 locker room, the team was relaxed. Then, the manager entered with Sae, Shidou, and Ayame. The moment they stepped in, the room fell silent. Shidou’s grin was manic, Ayame’s smile predatory. The team was unnerved, especially Aiku, who couldn’t shake the feeling that these two weren’t just teammates—they were something far more dangerous.