The only exception to this lack of attention was Iri, who was greeted warmly by the others. This contrast made Raiden's position even more apparent; while Iri was readily acknowledged and integrated into the group's interactions, Raiden was largely ignored. This dynamic showed Raiden's outsider status and highlighted the challenge of fitting into a pre-existing social structure where he had yet to establish his own connections or gain the group's interest.
"You should try to talk with everyone; just waiting for others to be friends with you won't cut it out," Iri whispered.
"Nah, I am fine," Raiden replied.
Iri raised her eyebrows. Raiden had his friends, but just having two of them was too little for his age. She could understand how friendships are a bit more complicated for teenagers, but he wasn't like that yet.
