Season 1: Luz Oscura

PROEM

Parents describe our generation as chaotic, but in fact, they just don't understand their children—us.

I smiled as I smelled the fresh air and savored the sense of freedom I rarely experience in the real world. This is the month of the year that every student like me eagerly anticipates. The start of summer means endless days spent in the virtual world, where adventures await at every turn. Our— oh well, my parents don't even notice how long I've been in my gaming room.

“What are you doing here on top of the hill?”

I turned around to look at him. Standing in front of me with his hands in his pockets, he was gazing at the village below, the setting sun casting a warm glow on his face.

I tugged at his slacks to get his attention and patted the space beside me, signaling that I wanted him to sit down. The grass rustled softly under my hand, a gentle breeze brushing against my skin.

He sighed as he sat beside me, then looked at me with concern in his eyes. “Did your parents scold you again for getting an A minus? Is that why you're here?”

I chuckled and shook my head, my laughter mixing with the distant sounds of the village. “I just missed being here,” I answered, and rested my head on his shoulder, feeling the comforting warmth of his presence.

“I don't blame you. It's more peaceful here than at your house,” he joked, and chuckled softly.

I just smiled and closed my eyes, letting the tranquility of the hilltop wash over me.

“Illaryl," he whispered after a moment of silence.

"Yes, Kuya Illidan?" I asked, opening my eyes and turning to face him.

"Join my friend’s university, meet someone, and make friends instead of keeping yourself busy with those ugly creatures in the tower. Try to make friends," his voice had a hint of concern.

I smirked, nudging him playfully. "Those 'ugly creatures' are a lot more interesting than some of the people you know.”

He shook his head while laughing. “You and your weird taste, but seriously, socialize more. You barely do that in the real world, and you won’t do it here in the virtual world?”

“Oh really, Mr. Social Butterfly?” I teased, a playful glint in my eye.

He pinched both of my cheeks, causing me to wrinkle my nose in mock annoyance. “At least I talk to real people and real players, not just some NPCs you meet in your game.”

I shoved his hand away, pretending to be outraged. “Real people like your brother Illiad? No thanks. I find it overrated,” I shot back, sticking out my tongue for extra emphasis.

He rolled his eyes dramatically and sighed. “What am I going to do with you?”

I grinned mischievously. “Probably like you always do—make a deal.”

He ruffled my hair affectionately, “Fine. How about this: I’ll join you for your next quest if you agree to join the university,” he said with a hopeful smile.

I held my chin thoughtfully, tapping it as if pondering the offer. “You’re starting with a hard bargain, huh?”

He nodded, his expression serious but still light-hearted.

“What’s the name of the university?” I asked, curiosity piqued.

He smiled widely, the fading sunlight catching the twinkle in his eyes. “La Muerte Santuwaryo.”

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