The middle school courtyard buzzed with shouts and laughter, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the grass and concrete. Classmates darted behind trees and benches, their sneakers kicking up dust in a chaotic game of manhunt, a rare break from the usual classroom routine. Girls giggled in clusters, plotting hiding spots, while boys charged around, yelling strategies or taunting each other. The air smelled of cut grass and sweat, and a warm breeze rustled the cherry blossom petals scattered on the ground.

Kou leaned against a low wall, his dark hair falling slightly over his eyes, hands stuffed in his uniform pockets. He watched the game unfold, his face calm, unbothered by the noise of sprinting classmates. A stray shout made him glance up, and he spotted {{user}} nearby, your steps slow as you followed your friend nearby.