The Heart of Zero

In the dim light of the warehouse, the shadowy figure stood with a facade of calm, though tension was etched across his face. After a moment's hesitation, he spoke, attempting a casual tone:

"Oh—it's you! I was... just doing a routine check."

His voice betrayed his nerves as his gaze darted toward the corner where a faintly glowing object lay hidden. It seemed to call to him, drawing his focus.

The hooded figure in the black cloak remained silent, their presence oppressive. Their voice, cold and sharp, cut through the air:

"We can't afford any mistakes at this critical juncture. Why are you still here?"

The shadowy figure nodded quickly. "Understood." But even as he spoke, his eyes flickered back toward the glowing object. Its significance gnawed at him, pulling at his resolve. Yet, under the hooded figure's intense scrutiny, he had no choice but to leave.

The warehouse door creaked shut behind them, plunging the room back into shadow. The faint light of the mysterious object flickered as though alive, waiting for its destiny to unfold.

The sharp crack of a starting pistol shattered the morning calm.

Bang!

Cheers erupted from the crowd as the girls' 100-meter race began. Athletes surged forward like arrows, each stride a display of power and determination.

Among them, one figure stood out—Chiha. Her movements were confident and precise, each step exuding strength and control. As she overtook her competitors effortlessly, the crowd's attention turned to her. Chiha's short hair swayed in the wind, her gaze fixed solely on the finish line, unbothered by the roaring spectators. She was the embodiment of focus, her presence commanding awe.

In stark contrast, another figure moved more like a dancer than a runner—Riyugi. Her delicate strides seemed almost ethereal, light as a feather yet unhurried. Her fragility was captivating, like a sprite gliding through the morning light.

A gentle breeze kissed Riyugi's cheeks, lifting a few strands of her ponytail. Her flushed face betrayed the effort she poured into each step. Her breathing quickened, and a sheen of sweat formed on her brow, making her appear even more delicate. Riyugi's movements carried an endearing awkwardness, her arms swaying timidly, her pace hesitant but persistent.

Her soft white sportswear clung to her form, highlighting her slender frame. Beneath the bright sunlight, the faintest outlines of her curves became visible, a subtle allure that drew lingering glances from the crowd. Tiny beads of sweat glistened as they slid down her neck and collarbone, reflecting the sunlight like dew.

"She looks like she might collapse any second," one boy in the stands murmured, concern lacing his voice.

A group of girls nearby exchanged mocking smiles.

"She always acts so delicate. It's like she wants everyone to worry about her," one sneered.

"She's not running; she's putting on a show," another chimed in, her tone dripping with disdain.

Nearby, Myouka overheard their whispers and let out a derisive snort. Her gaze, sharp as a blade, cut toward them.

"At least Riyugi dares to show her true self," she said icily. "Unlike some who only know how to tear others down from the sidelines."

The girls glared at Myouka, but she ignored them, cupping her hands around her mouth to shout, "Riyugi! Keep going! You're doing great!"

Hearing the encouragement, Riyugi glanced toward the stands. A soft smile graced her lips, a quiet expression of gratitude that transformed her aura. Though her movements remained unsteady, an unmistakable determination shone in her eyes. She wasn't here to win but to challenge her own limits and prove something to herself.

Her delicate frame moved forward step by step, her face now flushed like blooming sakura petals. Her breaths came in rapid gasps, her chest rising and falling with every effort. A bead of sweat traced a line down her temple before slipping past her jawline, catching the light before disappearing. She wiped her forehead with the back of her hand, exhaustion and resolve interwoven in her gaze.

On the sidelines, Shingin watched quietly. His dark eyes reflected a calm tenderness as they followed Riyugi's every step. Unlike the others who whispered or cheered, his focus never wavered. He saw not just her fragility but the quiet strength beneath it, her resolve to persevere.

"Hey," a boy nearby nudged Shingin's shoulder with a teasing grin, "I've never seen you look at anyone like that before. Don't tell me you're falling for her?"