¦𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐞-𝐬𝐚𝐧?¦^𝐊𝐍𝐘 𝐗 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑^

𝑐ℎ.;2 |Final Selection|

✩｡:*•.最終選考.•*:｡✩

The more you ran away, the heavier the weight of regret settled upon your chest. 

*Squeak!!* 

You startled, a sharp gasp escaping your lips as you instinctively stepped back, your gaze darting downward to investigate the source of the sound. There, an inquisitive little squirrel froze in place, its tiny body poised with a mix of curiosity and caution. A wave of guilt washed over you for not being mindful of where you tread, and your heart softened as you assessed the creature. Thankfully, it appeared unharmed, its bright eyes sparkling with vitality. 

With a relieved sigh, you gently let the squirrel scamper off into the underbrush, its bushy tail flicking jauntily as it disappeared into the foliage. You resumed your run, the path ahead beckoning you with an air of inevitability. You were acutely aware of your destination; anticipation thrummed in your veins as you felt steeled for all that lay ahead.

After scaling the rocky terrain of the mountain, a deep exhaustion enveloped you like a heavy blanket. The instinctual part of you, the child who once relished play, urged you to pause and rest amidst the allure of nature. Yet, the older sibling within you vehemently reminded you to never show a hint of weakness to anyone. You clenched your jaw, trying to shove aside the cramping pain in your leg as you ventured into a breathtaking expanse of wisteria flowers. 

The sight was nothing short of otherworldly—a sea of cascading purple blooms that danced gently in the breeze. It felt as though you had stepped into a vivid dream, the air thick with the sweet scent of blossoms. You closed your eyes, inhaling deeply, letting the crisp, revitalizing air fill your lungs and wash away the remnants of your fatigue. In that moment, everything around you shimmered with life and possibility.

You scanned the breathtaking scene around you, taking in the delicate cascade of wisteria flowers swaying gently in the breeze, their lavender petals fluttering like soft butterflies. Your gaze fell upon two intriguing boys, their playful energy contrasting with the serene beauty around you. They appeared to be around your age, and a surge of curiosity filled you, prompting you to approach them in hopes of sparking a conversation.

As you stepped closer to the duo, a wave of nervousness washed over you. Your familiarity with social interactions was confined mostly to your family, and a nagging worry crept in that you might come across as awkward. Gathering your courage, you flashed a bright smile, "Hey, this is the place where the final selection takes place, right?"

"Yes, I'm pretty sure it is, judging by all the people walking around with katanas!" the salmon-haired boy replied, returning your smile and radiating a friendly warmth that eased your nerves. 

Next to him, the boy with spiky black hair nodded in agreement, his own smile adding to the welcoming atmosphere. 

Driven by your curiosity and oblivious to any unspoken boundaries, you pressed on, "Do you guys also use a breathing style? And what's the story behind those masks? Are they just for looks or something?" 

Your eyes were drawn to the kitsune masks resting atop their heads, each adorned with intricate designs that spoke of craftsmanship and tradition, yet distinct from one another. 

The boys exchanged amused glances, an animated sweatdrop appearing on their foreheads as they processed your enthusiasm. 

"We both use the water breathing technique!" replied the salmon-haired boy, with a hint of pride in his voice.