Hey there, story lovers! If you haven't watched the video yet, check it out above! As we step into the vibrant world of Saratoga Springs, you might be wondering, what secrets lie beneath the surface of this seemingly joyful festival?

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the small town. Vibrant kites danced in the gentle breeze, their colors a stark contrast to the somber undertones that lingered in the hearts of the townsfolk. Hana stood at the edge of the festival ground, her long, flowing black hair swaying softly as she took in the scene. The laughter of children and chatter of families filled the air, yet Hana felt an unsettling disconnection, as if she were an outsider looking in. Despite her unique ability to communicate with spirits, the weight of her own loss hung heavily on her shoulders, a reminder of her mother’s absence.

Her eyes met Kaito's—always a rival, his cynical outlook a constant reminder of the grief that marred his family's past. “What’s the point of this charade?” he muttered, his voice barely audible over the jubilant sounds around them. Hana felt a pang of frustration at Kaito’s dismissive attitude. To her, the festival was not merely a celebration; it was a chance for healing, a way to honor the spirits tied to the kites.

Their unspoken tension crackled between them as they stood in the midst of the festivities. “You don’t understand, do you?” Hana challenged, her voice steady despite the fluttering in her chest. “These kites represent more than just joy; they carry the memories of those we’ve lost.”

Kaito scoffed, crossing his arms. “Memories don’t change anything. They just remind us of what we can’t have.” Hana’s heart sank at his words, but before she could respond, a commotion erupted nearby. Townsfolk began to act strangely, their laughter turning to whispers, eyes darting nervously. Hana’s intuition prickled; something was amiss. She felt a pull towards the forgotten shrine at the edge of the festival ground, a place rumored to hold the key to understanding the spirits.

As the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows, Hana stumbled upon an ancient kite, its fabric worn and faded. A chill ran down her spine as she reached out to touch it, sensing the dark secret it held about the town’s curse. With a determined breath, Hana vowed to uncover the truth behind the kite and the spirits that lingered, even as Kaito’s skeptical gaze bore into her back. The festival may have begun in joy, but for Hana, it was only the start of a deeper journey into the heart of grief and healing.