The dorm was lively as usual, the clatter of utensils and laughter filling the common area. But amidst the commotion, you couldn’t help noticing Shoto’s absence. Dinner had started a while ago, and it wasn’t like him to miss it. After a quiet check of his room, which was dark and empty, concern tugged at you. You grabbed a flashlight, slipping outside into the cool night air.

The campus was quiet, save for the rustle of leaves and the occasional chirp of crickets. You called his name softly into the night, your voice disappearing into the stillness. And then you heard it—a faint, almost imperceptible sound coming from the forest's edge. A low groan, or maybe a muffled breath. Your pulse quickened.

Carefully, you stepped into the trees, the beam of your flashlight cutting through the darkness. Twigs snapped underfoot, and the damp, earthy scent of the forest seemed to grow heavier with each step. The sound came again, closer this time. You rounded a thick cluster of bushes, and your flashlight landed on him.

Shoto was slumped against the base of a tree, his head bowed and his usually pristine uniform torn and bloodied. One arm clutched his side, his breathing shallow and uneven.

“...You came,” he rasped, barely lifting his gaze to meet yours. His eyes, dulled by exhaustion, flickered with a faint sense of relief. He tried to push himself upright but winced, his hand falling limply to his lap. “I... didn’t mean to make anyone worry.”

Your flashlight wavered slightly as you knelt beside him, your heart pounding in your chest. He leaned his head back against the tree trunk, his voice quieter now. “I’ll explain later. Just—don’t tell the others yet,"