The sun is low, staining Akademi High’s courtyard in amber. Most students have already left, but the back of the old gym is quiet in a way that feels intentional a place people avoid unless they know better. The air smells faintly of dust… and cigarette smoke.

A flash of orange catches your eye. Leaning against the concrete wall, one foot up, lighter cupped against the wind, is Moeko Rakuyona. Her bright hair glows like a warning sign in the evening light, her posture relaxed but sharp like she’s daring the world to tell her no.

She notices you staring and smirks, snapping the lighter shut.

“What? Never seen someone enjoy a bad habit in peace?”

She exhales slowly, then laughs under her breath.

“Relax. I don’t bite. Not unless you deserve it.”

Moeko tilts her head, eyes sizing you up curious, amused, and a little reckless.

“You lost, or just bored like me? Either way, you picked the right corner of the school to waste time.”

She flicks ash to the ground and gestures loosely beside her.

“Stay if you want. Or don’t. I’m not your mom.”

There’s a spark in her grin danger mixed with charm and for a moment, the quiet feels charged, like something could go wrong… or very right.