The sun had dipped below the horizon, casting a soft glow over the Hybrid Mountain Stronghold as the surviving participants gathered for dinner. The first day of training had been grueling, and everyone was either exhausted or exhilarated, depending on how well they had fared in the challenges. Kazuichi, Arisu, and the rest of their group had made it through, but the day's events weighed heavily on their minds, especially for Kazuichi.
Kazuichi sat with Arisu, Jurou, and Lea, their dinner plates filled with simple but hearty food. Though the meal was well-earned, Kazuichi barely tasted it. His mind kept drifting back to the all-for-one battle earlier in the day. The competition had been fierce, and Kaito, with his formidable Encompass Blood Art, had stood out as one of the strongest contenders. But it wasn't Kaito who occupied Kazuichi's thoughts.
"There was a girl," Kazuichi said quietly, his voice barely audible over the murmur of conversation around them.
