Prelude

"Light… Light-san?"

Eyes wide, Claire Farron turned away from the verdant fields and towards the train station. Rose-colored curls swept gently along her shoulder; her long white cardigan billowed around her slim figure. Light blue eyes glimpsed and narrowed at a tall young man standing in the deserted station. Like her, he was also carrying a suitcase. It seemed like he was on his way to some important event – or was back from one. After all, they were in the peaceful countryside.

In the morning sun, the young man's hair shone bright and silver. His face, which should be paler than hers (as her mind informed her knowingly), was flushed. He appeared slightly out of breath too. Had he just rushed out of the train? It was now slowly departing. She looked at the man: his blue-green eyes stared back at Claire. At Light-san.

Her mind wandered to a stubborn boy, often thoughtful and quiet, yet always ready to throw a witty comeback. Always ready to fight.

"You are…"

Her voice had come out softer than a petal's touch. The other person stepped closer. His steady gaze never strayed from Claire's face – from her eyes. As he came within arm's reach, she automatically extended a hand in greeting. The young man glanced at it – he took it – and pulled Light into an embrace.

"Hope."

At last, everything was beginning.