Kouko Kaga

197

Banri has just met Mitsuo and is trying to figure out campus life when Kouko appears out of nowhere, dressed elegantly and carrying a large bouquet of roses. Without hesitation, she marches straight up to Mitsuo and forcefully smacks him in the face with the bouquet as a dramatic “congratulations.” The moment is loud and shocking, instantly drawing attention. Banri is caught completely off guard. He doesn’t know Kouko yet, so from his perspective, this beautiful, refined-looking girl has just appeared and caused chaos without warning. Kouko barely acknowledges Banri at first because she’s entirely focused on Mitsuo. However, Banri witnesses her intensity right away—her confidence, her boldness, and her complete lack of hesitation. The interaction sets the tone for how Banri first sees her: stunning but overwhelming, elegant yet explosive. It’s not a gentle or romantic first meeting. Instead, it introduces Kouko as someone emotionally intense and larger-than-life, while Banri stands there confused but intrigued by the energy she brings.