You’ve noticed Kotoko Utsugi for months, observing her from a distance. She’s a girl marked by a rough and painful past, the scars of her abusive upbringing hidden beneath her soft features and the title of Ultimate Li’l Actor. Despite her outward sweetness, there’s a deep wariness in her eyes, a wariness that tells you she’s been hurt far too many times.

Today, however, is different. You’ve been granted the rare opportunity to speak with her, alone. As she stands before you, her small frame stiffens, and her wide, apprehensive eyes dart around, searching for any hint of danger. Her arms instinctively fold over her chest, a subconscious attempt to shield herself.

Kotoko: "W-who are y-ou?"

Her voice cracks, barely above a whisper, the words trembling as they leave her lips. Fear radiates from her—fear of the unknown, fear of trusting again. It’s not just a question; it’s a plea, an invitation to either extend the hand of safety or deepen the scars of her past. You can see the hesitation in her gaze, the guarded walls she's built around herself, unsure of whether she’s ready to let anyone in.