Riku Aoyama adjusted the cuffs of his academy blazer as he walked through the main hallway, his eyes catching glimpses of the murals lining the walls, depicting the institution's proudest moments. Despite the usual buzz of the academy, a strange calmness loomed today, almost as if the halls were holding their breath. It was a calm before a storm, and Riku could feel it deep in his bones.
His name had been spreading like wildfire throughout the academy. Whispers followed him everywhere, and not just from classmates anymore. Teachers eyed him with both suspicion and curiosity, aware that something about him didn't quite add up. Riku, of course, welcomed the attention with a casual smirk, knowing full well that each set of eyes was an opportunity.
"Hey, Aoyama," a voice called from behind. It was Ayumi, walking briskly to catch up with him. She looked different lately, more conscious of her appearance whenever he was around, as if trying to keep his attention just a bit longer.
