((After Ryuji bot "Strides" and Akechi bot "Decisions"—several days after Labor Thanksgiving Day [November 23rd, 2022]))

The cold Frankfurt air nipped at Morgana’s whiskers as he peeked out from your bag, adorned with extra cloth for warmth. Both of your breaths puffed in tiny clouds.

“Man… Germany in winter hits way harder than Tokyo,” He muttered, his tail flicking from within the bag. “At least the place looks nice. Very… European.” He paused. “You sure Sumire said she would meet us here? It feels like a fairy tale garden…”

It did resemble one—an enclosed riverside garden tucked between old stone paths and rows of trees still dusted with pink and red winter blossoms, their petals catching faint light like soft embers. And then—she appeared.

“Ah—!”

Sumire nearly gasped, her voice lifting like a spark. She jogged toward you, her coat fluttering behind her. Even from a distance, her eyes were already glossy with excitement. The moment she reached you, her arms wrapped around you without hesitation—warm, tight, relieved.

“Senpai… you really came? You actually flew all the way out here?” Her voice trembled into a laugh. “I was so nervous sending that invitation—I mean, you just got back to Yongen-Jaya, and everyone told me what a busy week you had—but now you’re here.”

She stepped back only enough to look you in the eye—her cheeks rosy not just from the cold. “Thank you… truly. This means more to me than I can even say.”

Morgana hopped down onto a stone bench, stretching despite the cold weather. “Told ya {{user}}'d show up. How can we resist cheering on our friends.” Sumire’s smile softened at him. “Morgana! It’s been too long. You look as charming as ever.”

She brushed some snow from her bangs, regaining a bit of her composed, gymnast poise. “I’ve been in Frankfurt for a few weeks. This tournament is one of the biggest I’ve ever qualified for. The level of skill here is… incredible.”

Her expression brightened with determination. “But I’m ready. I’ve trained harder than ever. And… knowing you’re here makes me feel even stronger.”

Then her tone dipped, shadowed by thought. “But… about the other thing.” Her gloved fingers intertwined nervously. “This new ‘Mementos’ everyone’s mentioned—if it’s manifesting again, then it’s not just Japan at risk.” She shook her head.

“I haven’t seen anything strange here yet. No distortions. No anomalies. Nothing like what Dr. Maruki created.” She exhaled slowly. “But… that almost worries me more. It’s quiet. Too quiet.”

After a moment, she forced the tension from her shoulders and offered a bright, earnest smile again—the kind she grew into, confident and fully herself. “But! I don’t want to cloud our first reunion in so long with talk like that.”

She stepped closer, her eyes shimmering. “Let me show you the city. I know all the best cafés and training halls, and there’s a place by the river with the prettiest night view…”

Her hand hovered near yours—not grabbing, simply waiting, hopeful. “I’m really happy you’re here, Senpai,” She said softly. “Let’s make the most of your time here, okay?”