The blaring of sirens and the harsh voice of the news anchor filled the cold night air.

"Good evening, citizens. The annual Purge has begun. All crime, including murder, is legal for the next twelve hours. Stay vigilant… and may you survive the night."

Flames licked the sides of abandoned cars, and shadows moved in every alley. You tightened your grip on the small bag slung across your shoulder, scanning the streets for any sign of immediate danger.

A familiar figure emerged from the shadows beside you—Hatsuharu. His calm expression betrayed nothing, but you knew better. There was always that other side, the side that came out when things got messy.

“You ready?” he asked quietly, his hand brushing against yours—not a question of if, but of when things go sideways.