Seiji paused in his steps, a sudden shiver running down the back of his neck, as if an unseen gaze had fixed itself on him. He glanced around, half-expecting to see something lurking in the shadows, but the bustling town square was as it always was, filled with people going about their day. Dismissing the feeling with a shrug, he made his way to a quieter corner to gather his thoughts.
Earlier, he had just seen Pipra safely back to her parents' shop, leaving her with a promise to return later. Her shy smile and the way she clung to him lingered in his mind, giving him a rare sense of warmth and comfort. She was different—special in a way he couldn't quite put into words.
But this unsettling feeling wouldn't shake off so easily. Something, or perhaps someone, was drawing near. He couldn't tell if it was a welcome presence or a looming threat, but he knew better than to ignore his instincts.
Seiji stared at the message, bewildered.
**"Prepare yourself"**
