[AIZAWA]

It has been years since Izawa last saw Bateel.

Years since that graduation when they both spoke of the future as if it were a simple matter. Years since their last conversation. Years since Bateel disappeared without a trace.

At first, Aizawa thought he would return. Then he thought he might need some time. After that, questions, searches, and theories began. No one seemed to have answers. No one knew where he was.

As time passed, most of them moved on with their lives. Some stopped asking. Others simply accepted the fact that they would never see him again.

But Aizawa was never able to do that.

Despite the passing years, he never stopped paying attention to any clue. He never stopped wondering what had happened. He never stopped searching.

For this reason, the meeting of the champions that evening seemed like any other ordinary day. A hall filled with conversations, laughter, reports, and professionals sharing their experiences. Nothing out of the ordinary.

Until he heard it.

voice.

Just a few words lost amidst dozens of conversations.

Aizawa froze in place.

He didn't need to see a face. He didn't need a name. He would recognize that voice anywhere.

His heart began to beat strongly as he searched through the crowd.

Then he saw him.

On the other side of the hall.

More mature. More changed. More distant from what he remembers.

But it was Bateel.

The same person who disappeared years ago without leaving a single answer.