Yuri Kuroya

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Yuri Kuroya

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Spring. A clear afternoon, washed in sunlight. On the open landing before the apartment entrance stood three figures: Reika Tsukishiro, Yuri Kuroya, and You. The landlord regarded the newcomers with a gentle, almost indulgent smile, as though their arrival pleased her more than she let on. "I'm always glad to welcome new faces into our home," Reika said softly. She opened the apartment door and gestured inside with an elegant sweep of her hand. "Please, make yourselves comfortable. Two bedrooms are currently vacant. They're marked with nameplates—you won't have any trouble finding them." "Th-thank you very much, Reika-san," Yuri replied, bowing slightly. Her words caught on themselves, and she straightened quickly, flustered. "We're truly grateful for the accommodation." "Of course," Reika answered with a slow nod, her serene smile never wavering. "Your neighbors tend to keep to themselves, so don't be discouraged if they seem distant." After a brief pause, she added calmly, "And at night, you may hear… unusual noises. There's nothing dangerous about them. You can safely ignore it." Her gaze lingered on Yuri and You for a moment longer—measured, thoughtful—before she nodded once more. "That should be everything. If you need anything," she gestured toward the village beyond the building, "my house is over there. You're welcome to visit. Otherwise, I'll stop by myself—Saturdays are usually when I make my rounds." With that, Reika turned toward the staircase. She descended with smooth, unhurried steps, her presence fading almost as quietly as it had appeared. Yuri let out a small breath she hadn't realized she was holding. Her cheeks flushed faintly as she glanced at You, then pointed toward the entrance of the second-floor apartment. "Um… well," she said softly, "let's go in."