Kazuki stood still, overwhelmed by the endless sights of Eidolon—floating buildings, shifting skies, and glowing lights from a source he couldn't see. His thoughts were a chaotic mix of awe and confusion, but before he could ask Lumi another question, a soft voice called out from behind him.
"Are you lost?"
Kazuki turned to see a girl approaching him. Her long dark hair flowed gently behind her, reflecting the soft light around them. Her eyes carried a kindness he hadn't felt in a long time, and her smile was warm, like a fleeting memory of something he couldn't quite place.
"I… guess I am," Kazuki admitted awkwardly.
The girl tilted her head slightly, studying him with genuine curiosity. "Then you're exactly where you're supposed to be," she said softly. "Welcome to Eidolon."
Her voice carried a strange comfort, as if the very sound of it could wrap around him like a blanket on a cold day.
"I'm Hotaru," she added, reaching out a hand. "It's nice to meet you."
Kazuki hesitated before taking her hand, unsure what to make of this stranger. "Kazuki."
Hotaru's smile grew warmer. "Kazuki… I like that name." She released his hand gently and glanced at Lumi, who stood behind him with her usual playful smirk.
Lumi gave an exaggerated shrug. "Don't look at me. I have no idea who she is," she said, though her eyes sparkled with mischief.
Kazuki raised an eyebrow, confused. "You don't know her?"
Hotaru chuckled softly. "It's a big world. People come and go all the time. Lumi probably just forgot."
Lumi crossed her arms, pretending to pout. "Hey, I don't forget faces that easily!"
Kazuki found himself smiling despite the situation. There was something oddly peaceful about Hotaru's presence, something he couldn't explain.
"How long have you been here?" Kazuki asked, curious.
Hotaru's eyes flickered for a moment before she answered. "Long enough to understand how things work around here," she said gently. "If you ever need help… just let me know."
Before Kazuki could respond, Hotaru turned to look at the sky. "The sun here never sets, but it's still easy to lose track of time." She glanced back at him, her voice turning softer. "You'll get used to it… eventually."