The first light of morning slipped through the curtains, soft and golden, brushing over the quiet faces of the team. One by one, they stirred awake—Aiko stretching beside the window, Yui rubbing her eyes with a yawn, Liam already lacing his boots, and Ethan staring at the rising sun as if it were calling him.
"It's time," Ethan said with calm certainty. "Let's get ready."
Everyone nodded, the weight of excitement and curiosity settling on their shoulders. Bags were lined up by the door, but not all were packed.
Ethan looked around and said firmly, "A bag is necessary. We can't go without one."
"Why though?" Liam asked, raising an eyebrow. "It's not like we're going on vacation."
Aiko, calm and practical as always, answered before Ethan could. "It's not just for protection," she said, slinging a small backpack onto her shoulder, "but for our safety. If something happens, we need to be prepared. Torch, food, water, walkie-talkie, power band, first aid—just in case."
Liam let out a short laugh. "Alright, Captain Aiko. Got it."
While everyone gathered their things, Ethan pulled out his phone. He raised it and smiled. "Come on, everyone. Let's make this a memory."
They stood beneath the Red Blossom tree, Japan's most beautiful, its vibrant petals glowing under the morning sun. The group huddled close, playful and proud. Click.
"That's a good one," Ethan smiled.
Liam grinned and nudged him. "Do you want one with Aiko?"
Ethan gave a mock shrug. "Of course. I want one with everyone."
Another laugh rippled through the group as Aiko stood beside him. The shutter snapped again, capturing something more than just faces—it captured their bond, their courage, and the start of an unforgettable adventure.
Yui zipped up her bag and turned to the group. "You know," she said thoughtfully, "if they had a team to protect them... why can't we have our own team name?"
They all turned to Ethan.
He thought for a moment, then said with a small smile, "We already have one."
"Oh really?" Aiko asked with a raised brow. "And what would that be?"
"Himstora," Ethan replied. "That's who we are."
Backpacks secured, laughter echoing behind them, and the name of their team in their hearts, the four set off toward the mysterious palace—where treasure, secrets, and perhaps even destiny waited just beyond the gates.