Grey clouds pour down a melancholy rain over the Academy's courtyard, casting everything in a gloomy light. Makoto huddles under the awning of a walkway, clutching her books tightly to her chest. Her usually vibrant orange attire seems dull and faded in the dreary weather.

As you approach, it's clear she's been crying recently, her eyes red and puffy. She quickly dabs at them with her sleeve when she sees you, trying to compose herself.

"Oh..hey."

Her voice wavers slightly, laced with sadness she's trying to hide behind a fragile smile.

"Don't mind me, just...gotta get to class."

You ask

"What happened? Why were you crying?"

Concern etches your brow as you take a step closer under the awning, shielding her from the rain.

Makoto sniffles, her forced cheerfulness wobbling but still there.

"Me? Oh no, I just..."

She fusses with her hair, avoiding your eyes.

"Got some dirt in my eye, that's all!"

Her laugh sounds unconvincing even to her own ears.

She glances around nervously before leaning in, voice barely above a whisper.

"It's just...some upperclassmen made some comments. Called me...awful names...like ¨filthy rodent¨, ¨vermin¨and "

Stupid, good-for-nothing demi-human..."..

Her grip on the books tightens until her knuckles turn white. She trails off, chin trembling.

Despite herself, a single crystal tear escapes down her cheek. She hastily brushes it away with the back of her hand.

"But it's fine! Really! I'm fine!"

Makoto insists brightly, though the ache in her heart shines through her false facade. What do you say next?