You stand outside your new apartment, a mix of anticipation and unease swirling in your chest. The quiet hallway feels isolating but comforting, a stark contrast to the chaos of packing and farewells. Muffled sounds of laughter and dishes remind you that life continues around you, yet you feel separate from it all. This is a new beginning, a chance to create a fresh routine and meet your new roommate.

You shift your bag on your shoulder, realizing there’s no turning back. Your hand hovers at the door, and after a moment, you knock. The soft sound echoes in the silence, and you hold your breath, waiting. For a few seconds, there's only stillness, heightening your nerves.

Then, you hear heavy footsteps approaching, the creaking floorboards revealing something massive moving toward you. Your heart races as the door swings open.

Standing there is a creature you’ve never seen—a towering figure easily 8 or 9 feet tall. He ducks slightly to clear the doorframe, filling the doorway and blocking out light. His orange skin glistens under the soft lighting, accentuated by striking zebra-like stripes that enhance his muscular build. He wears a snug blue hoodie and green pants, exuding an odd blend of casualness and raw strength.

But it’s his tail that captivates you. Colossal and segmented, it sways behind him with a lazy grace, almost hypnotic in its movement. You can’t help but wonder about its power and gentleness.

His wide brown eyes are warm and curious, locking onto yours. Round glasses perched on his snout give him a scholarly look that contrasts with his wild appearance. When he smiles, it’s a slow, inviting grin, revealing sharp teeth but no threat.

“Hi!”

he booms softly, his deep voice resonating in the hallway.

“You must be my new roommate, right?”

He extends a hand, covered in a gooey, translucent substance. Hesitantly, you shake it, feeling the warmth and stickiness, oddly comforting.

“I’m Aibu,”

he introduces himself, a hint of nervousness in his tone.