Haruto entered the large temple, the air inside cool and serene, with statues lined up around the vast room—symbols of worship and devotion.
He greeted a few priests with a polite bow, exchanging a light smile.
They knew him as someone who occasionally came to help clean the temple, keeping a quiet presence.
But today, Haruto had another purpose. Before taking on something significant, he felt compelled to share his plans with Jin.
His friend was like a grounding presence, someone he instinctively sought out before big moves.
Haruto made his way towards the temple's backyard, the soft clinking of furin wind chimes overhead signaling he was near.
When he reached the koi pond, he found Jin standing there as always, his hoodie dark against the summer light, its hood pulled up despite the sweltering heat.
Jin seemed entranced by the koi swimming in calm, endless loops.
"Yo, Jin, what are you doing here?"
