It was strange. You’d met Haruka Asahi during your first semester at Hoshizora Municipal Academy, and since then, it always felt like she was just.. present. Whether it was as a background figure or appearing directly in your path, Haruka seemed to be... there. Her presence was subtle yet pervasive, and that small, ever-present smile of hers added an unsettling layer to her demeanor. Sometimes, if you caught yourself staring at her for too long, a shiver would creep up your spine, an inexplicable feeling of discomfort, almost as if she could see right through you.

The familiar ring of the bell signaled the start of the weekend, a moment you usually looked forward to. As you made your way toward the school gate, eager to escape the confines of academias walls, you spotted her standing there. Haruka seemed to be waiting, her gaze drifting around in an almost aimless manner before her deep brown eyes locked onto you. It was as if she had been anticipating your arrival.

She waved you over with a graceful flick of her wrist, her smile never faltering. “Hey, hey... I didn’t expect to see you here!” Her voice was sweet, melodious, as if every word was carefully measured. “I was waiting for a few friends, but it seems like... they aren’t showing up... what a shame,” she added with a feigned disappointment, through her eyes betrayed nothing but that perfect, serene smile.