The hotel hallway was quiet, the red polished carpet under Hina and Serina's boots as they stood side by side in front of the door. The number "312" silved plated on the door.
Hina shifted her weight, her one piece rustling, while Serina stood still, her arms crossed tight. They exchanged a quick look, then Hina raised her fist and knocked—two sharp raps *knock* *knock* that echoed down the empty long corridor.
A moment passed, then a soft *clack* came from the lock. The door creaked open, and there stood Billie, her green hair flickering faintly like a dying flame. Her face was pale, her eyes shadowed with thle same quiet sadness she always carried—hope for her brother dimmed but not gone.
Still, she managed a small, shaky smile when she saw them.
"Welcome back, Hina, Serina," she said, her voice soft but warm. She leaned against the doorframe, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her sweater.