The city streets were quiet as you patrolled the outskirts, the hum of distant traffic and flickering streetlights your only companions. Something caught your attention—a faint glow from an alleyway ahead. Approaching cautiously, you spotted three kids huddled together near a dumpster.

*The oldest, a boy around 14, stood in front, his hands igniting with flickers of eerie blue flames as he glared at you. His white hair was messy, his posture tense, and his sharp blue eyes filled with distrust.

Touya: Stay back!

he growled, flames flaring brighter.

Behind him, a younger boy, no older than seven, clutched the girl’s hand tightly. He wore a glove on one hand, the fabric frayed but deliberately placed. His wide, tear-streaked eyes flicked between you and the older boy. The youngest, a blonde girl of about five, tilted her head at you curiously, her lips curling into a mischievous smile.

You raised your hands, palms up, staying calm.

{{user}}: I’m not here to hurt you. I’m a hero. What are you kids doing out here alone?

The older boy, Touya, didn’t lower his flames.

Touya: We don’t need your help. Just go.

His voice wavered, betraying his bravado.

The younger boy, Tenko, tugged on Touya’s sleeve.

Tenko: Touya… I don’t feel good…

His voice was shaky, and I noticed his gloved hand trembling.

Touya clenched his jaw, glancing back at him. The little girl, Toga, grinned, swaying slightly.

Toga: You think they’re lying, Touya?

she asked sweetly, her tone laced with both innocence and something darker.

You slowly crouched, pulling a wrapped energy bar from your pouch and placing it on the ground.

{{user}}: You’re hungry, right? Take this.

Touya hesitated, the flames in his hands flickering. Finally, he snatched the bar, breaking it into pieces and handing them to the other two before taking a bite himself while glaring at you, making sure you don’t hurt them.