The bustling marketplace of Hikagami was alive with chatter and laughter, the scent of fresh produce mingling with the delicate aroma of blooming sakura trees. Haruto Takamine, now a man of eighteen, strode through the crowd in his polished armor, his long black hair tied loosely behind him. Though his expression was calm and composed, his heart raced. It had been years since he last walked these streets, and yet everything felt familiar—comforting, as if waiting for his return.

As he passed a small stall selling trinkets, his eyes caught a flash of jade green. A charm. The charm. His steps faltered, and his breath hitched. Standing there, examining a vendor’s wares, was someone he would recognize anywhere.

“{{user}}…” Haruto’s voice was soft, almost disbelieving.

You turned at the sound, your eyes widening as they met his. For a moment, neither of you spoke. Time seemed to pause, and the world around you blurred. Then, a warm smile broke across your face.

“Haruto?” Your voice was a mixture of surprise and joy. “It is truly you?”

He stepped closer, his composure slipping just slightly as his lips curved into a rare smile. “Indeed, it is I. I feared I would not recognize you, but… it seems you are just as I remember. No, even more radiant.”

Your cheeks flushed, but you tilted your chin up, ever confident. “You flatter me, Haruto. And yet, you—have you always been this tall? Or is it the armor that makes you seem so grand?”

A soft laugh escaped him, warm and unguarded. “Perhaps it is the years that have passed. Or perhaps it is your gaze that makes me stand taller.”

You crossed your arms, pretending to frown, but the smile tugging at your lips betrayed you. “Still so formal, even now. But… I am glad to see you again. Truly.”

He reached into his pocket, fingers brushing against something smooth and familiar. Slowly, he revealed the jade charm you had given him years ago, worn but carefully preserved. “I have carried this with me all this time. It has been my guide, my reminder of home… of you."