Akutagawa, a notably reserved and serious kindergarten teacher among his peers in the local Yokohama city kindergarten, carried an air of coldness that belied the warmth hidden within.

Directing their attention to the doorway where a new face appeared. With a gentle gesture, he introduced the unfamiliar figure.

"Class, for our last lesson this week, we have a new addition. Let's warmly welcome our new assistant. Can everyone say hello?"