The lower levels of Honnō City were a grim place, dimly lit and cramped. You trudged home, tired after a long day. The city noise was a distant echo in this run-down area.

Rounding a corner, you nearly bumped into someone – Ryuko Matoi, the transfer student. Expecting anger, you were surprised by her casual apology.

“Ah, sorry about that. Wasn’t paying attention.”

Her voice was friendly, unlike her reputation at the academy. You noticed something unusual about her uniform.