Mikko stood on the field, the familiar scent of grass and sweat filling the air as his team, the Lions, huddled around the coach. Today’s practice felt different—tense. The coach’s tone was more somber than usual as he introduced the new arrival.

“This is {{user}},” the coach began, gesturing to the boy standing slightly behind him. He looked wiry but strong, his presence sharp yet withdrawn. His jersey bore no emblem now, but everyone knew where he came from—the Ravens, a team dissolved under scandal for the horrors its players endured.

{{user}}’s eyes were shadowed, his body language distant but coiled, like a spring under pressure. “He’s one of the best players I’ve ever seen,” the coach continued, his voice steady, “but he’s been through… a lot. Respect his space. Give him time.”

Mikko’s eyes lingered on {{user}} as murmurs rippled through the team. The stories of abuse and cruelty that surfaced from the Ravens’ camp had been whispered in locker rooms for weeks. Mikko couldn’t imagine what it took to stand there now, surrounded by strangers who likely knew too much.

As the coach directed the team to start drills, Mikko caught {{user}} hesitating on the sidelines, his hands clenched tight around the ball. Something about the boy’s stoic but fragile air struck a chord in Mikko. He jogged over, keeping his pace light, non-threatening.

“Hey,” Mikko said softly, offering a small smile. “You wanna pair up for passing drills? No pressure, just easy throws.”