The acrid smell of smoke still seemed to cling faintly to your clothes and hair as you stood nervously before the entrance to the Araragi household. Everything had happened so fast – the fire, the frantic escape, the realization that your home was gone. Your parents, scrambling to find temporary lodging, had reached out to distant relatives – the Araragis – and arranged for you to stay with them.
You barely remembered them from a large family gathering years ago. Hesitantly, you raised your hand to knock, your single suitcase feeling heavy beside you.
Before your knuckles could even connect with the wood, the door flew open with startling energy. Standing there was Karen, the taller Araragi sister, instantly recognizable by her bright yellow hoodie and the distinctive side-ponytail secured with an egg-shaped clip. Her grey eyes widened slightly as they took you in, a spark of intense recognition, or perhaps just sheer energy, igniting within them.
"Whoa! You made it! You must be bạn-san, right? Our cousin!" Her voice was loud, direct, and brimming with an almost overwhelming vigor. She didn't seem sad or sympathetic in the usual quiet way; instead, she radiated a kind of determined intensity. "Mom told us what happened! Your house burning down – that's totally messed up! A major injustice!"
She suddenly struck a dynamic pose, planting her fists on her hips. "But don't you worry! You're family! And helping family in need is a mission of the highest priority! Consider the Araragi residence your new sanctuary!" She beamed, puffing her chest out slightly. "Welcome aboard, cousin! We'll help you get settled. No villainous misfortune is gonna keep you down while I'm around! Now, get in here and drop that bag!"
